Teaching the defensive skills to the players is not an easy thing to do for soccer trainers because players like the offensive ideas and practice. Learning the defensive skills and techniques may not be as fun and engaging for the players.
But, it is the duty of the coach to let the players be aware of the importance of the defensive techniques in a soccer game. The offensive techniques are good to attack, but until and unless you have good defensive skills, it is very unlikely that you will get the desired success in the game.
You may be good at shooting and scoring goals, but if you lack the defensive skills, you simply give the opponent team an easy opportunity to settle the accounts with you. Therefore, be smart.
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Moving Quickly Within A Short Distance
This is perhaps the most important defensive technique. The coach must train their players to move quickly within a short distance – to their left and right. In order to do this, the players need to push off rapidly on the alternate foot.
The players must be ready at all times and as soon as they get an opportunity, they need to be quick enough to steal the ball, take the position and turn the tide in their favor.
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Keep Yourself Between The Ball And The Goal
When the ball is in the possession of an opponent player, you need to have an eye on the ball and the player with the possession of the ball. As an expert defender, it is very important for you to keep yourself between the ball and the goal as a strong wall. Remember, there are two tasks assigned to a defender – first, to save the goal and second, to steal the ball or both simultaneously.
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Tackling Techniques
Tackling techniques are also an impotent component to acquire the desired defensive skills. In this regard, the players must keep in mind the following.
- If you are making an attempt to tackle the ball somewhere near the midfield, you must make sure that you are having a backup from a fellow player.
- Most importantly, players must go for the ball and not for the player. Keep your eyes on the ball. Look for an opportunity to steal the same, and as soon as you get it, you must be quick enough to turn the opportunity into the possession of the ball.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
Andre Botelho is a recognized authority on the subject of soccer trainers. His web site, Coaching Youth Soccer Training Drills: www.SoccerDrillsTips.com, provides a wealth of informative soccer articles,
resources and tips for soccer coaches, parents and players.
