Defending

STEP 1

STEP 2

STEP 3

1. 
   
   If you are being closed down by an opposition player and the speed and angle of the pass back allow it, you should play the ball first time making sure that you clear it as high and as wide as possible (see targets highlighted in the diagram). This will allow your defenders time to re-group and get back into position to defend should the opposition win the second ball.
   NEXT STEP
2. 
   
   If a touch is needed and/or there is time to take it, control the ball, then lift your head up and play it quickly to a team-mate who should have reacted to the backpass by moving into position to provide a good angle of support. This should ensure that your team keeps possession of the ball and are able to play it out from the back.
   NEXT STEP
3. 
   
   When you've passed the ball to a team-mate, don't stop and think your job is done: you need to make sure you get into a good supporting position in relation to the player with the ball so you can receive the ball again if needed.

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