Defending # 8 - When the challenger is too far from the ball (support player).

When the challenger is too far from the ball (support player). A Defender who is challenging and pressuring the attacker with the ball, must have at all times support from a teammate. Defender 1 is too far from the ball and Attacker 1. Attacker 1 has the choice to attack the space on either side, inside or outside of the Defender 1. Defender 2 must cover (support) in a position where he/she has a chance of dealing with either possibility. Defender 2 should be in position in back of the 2 of them, at a 45 degree from Defender 1.

Things to remember in defending. Once the Defender is in position goal side of the ball, the Defender must think about his/her line of recovery, marking and challenging an opponent. The Defender has 5 options.
1. Track an Attacker who is making a run to the back of the defense.
2. Occupy important space goal side of the ball.
3. Mark an Attacker in the area of the ball.
4. Cover a teammate who is challenging the Attacker with the ball.
5. Challenge the Attacker with the ball.

Remember: A player can not be declared off-side by the referee if he/she receives the ball direct from a goal kick, a corner kick or a throw-in.

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