Shield and Protect

Coaching Objectives

Keeping the ball in defensive situations to retain possession and not allow attacking opponents to win it.

Key coaching points

• Always know where the ball is and player they are marking
• Position the body sideways so reaction speed is faster
• Be on balls of feet so reaction also quicker
• Use defensive feints to trouble the attacker and cause mistakes
• When attacker is close eyes on ball not on player
• Don't jump in and make it easier for the attacker
• If beaten by the attacker's skill sprint to the goal to defend it
• The defence must keep their lines tight and narrow so as not to get beaten.
• It is very important that defenders win the second ball after an attacking player shoots on goal.
• Be ready for quick transition if the ball is won