Lockdown Defense – How GOOD are you?

Tactical Series for the Player

Does the old adage “offense wins games & defense wins championships” ring true or is it just a myth? When you get into that tight game situation you better be able to play lockdown defense. So, how GOOD are you? Your answer might be the difference between lifting hardware or walking down the tunnel empty handed.

Tactical Series will present you with a question (20 total) and you have to honestly grade yourself 1-10 (1 being the lowest and 10 being the highest). Check back daily to see your next assessment question.

2. DEFENDING

Help from the sideline: How well do you get back and recover? How well do you tackle? Do you anticipate what the attackers are trying to do?

When possession of the ball is turned over, what’s your next action? I’ve seen many players just stand around and watch as the opponents dribble right down your throat and become dangerous in front of your own goal.

Coaches and your teammates love when your first action is the opposite of what I just asked above. As soon as the ball is turned over get back and recover AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. I define this as plain ol’ desire.

Has the opponent left the ball too far out in front of them for an opportunity for you to put in a crunching tackle? Trust me, opportunities are there and you need to be close enough to seize that opportunity. Tacking is a skill. Get in there.

Where are your eyes? They better be on the play AND your man. High level defenders can anticipate an opportunity to INTERCEPT (the best defensive play) the ball and transition forward lightning quick. Late in the game when legs and minds are tired, your quick anticipation defensively can help net the winner for your side and supporters.

Lockdown Defending Action:

Comment below or on our team’s twitter page @soccerwithcoach with your score. Don’t rate yourself dishonestly or else you might be subject to get turned around in your next fixture.