FineSoccer Kids 70

Welcome to the FineSoccer Kids Newsletter.  Today’s subject deals with playing the ball behind the defense.

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One of the most effective ways to score more goals is to serve balls behind the defense for players to run onto.  A reason this is so effective is it increases both the chances for the attacking players to be successful plus it puts the defenders into a position where it’s difficult for them to be successful.

By playing the ball early (see the edition on early serves at http://finesoccer.com/edition82.htm) the ball is played into space for the defenders to run onto and head straight for goal.  If the ball is played behind the defenders, they have to turn and run toward their own goal in order to try to win the ball which puts them in the awkward position if they win the ball of having the ball under pressure and facing the wrong direction.  This frequently will result in a misplayed ball, a corner kick or possibly even an own goal.

A ball that is taken down to the end line and then crossed back is also coming from behind the defense and again it lets the attacking players receive the ball facing the goal while forcing the defending players to do the same. 

Effective passes played behind the defense puts the defense and keeper under a great deal of pressure while not putting the attacking players at risk at all.

The more teams practice playing the balls behind the defense and the appropriate runs off of this type of pass, the more effective they will be.

Defenders need to practice this situation as well since it’s something they will face in a game while under a lot of pressure.  The defenders who practice this on a regular basis are the ones who are going to be successful in the game situation

Any questions, comments or suggestions should be sent to Lawrence@finesoccer.com

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Have a great day!

Lawrence