Defensive Principles
What is the top priority of a defender?
Delay the attack, drive the opponent outside, hold the center of the box/field
Who are wingbacks?
Exterior defensive linebacks who guard the flanks/outside and will serve as offensive support (safety net passes).
Where are we trying to send attackers (Shepherding)
Towards the sideline/away from goal.
What is the most common system for defending a set piece?
Zone Marking
What does "press" or "step up" mean?
When a teammate moves toward the ball/opposing player for a tackle or interception. The rest of the team should follow suit (step up towards their mark).
Who are centerbacks?
Interior defensive line players responsible for directing line movement and protecting the interior of the field.
What is the most important thing to watch as a defender during a 1v1.
The attackers midsection/hip (not the ball!)
What is a defensive wall? What is its purpose?
To block incoming passes/shots into the box.
What does "maintaining the line" mean?
All defenders on the back line should move as a unit, staying compact and on the same line throughout the game.
What does 3-2-4-1 or 4-2-3-1 refer to?
Our formations
What two tackle types can you perform in a 1v1?
A poke or block tackle. Which do we want to see more often?
Where should the defensive wall be placed?
How does a teammate communicate that they have eyes on the ball while marking a runner heading behind their teammate?
"Cover" or "I've got drop!"
In our formation, where are we most vulnerable?
In the wide spaces
In a 1v1 situation where you are the last defender and need assistance, you can do this to slow down play.
Professional foul (you'll likely draw a yellow). When should you NOT intentionally foul?
How many players should be in the defensive wall? Who should be in the defensive wall?
3-4 players. strikers/midfielders/wingbacks who don't have a mark.
What are the 3 key defensive principles? (The Defensive Triangle)
Pressure, Cover, Balance
What is a defensive block? ("Block!")
The formation a team takes when they do not have possession of the ball.
What is the defender's ideal body positioning when facing an attacker.
"Side-On Stance". Between square with the defender and slightly toward the sideline.
What is the job of the most interior and exterior defensive wall player other than blocking?
To look for/cut off any passes to the inside/center of the box.