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From
here the counter attack can be sprung. This system brings about
opportunities for many attacks, as you win the ball in positions
higher up in the field. The opposition will also be stretched defensively
as they try to find a way out of the "press".
The key to a successful side is to attack using the full pitch and
defend in as small a space as possible. By closing the oppositions'
space when they are in possession, closes down the angles and options
they have available to them. If they try to carry the ball out of
this position, it is important that we try to channel the ball carrier
onto a second defenders stick to make the tackle. If the first defender
dives in, it is very likely that the ball carrier will win the hit
and thus obtain the space and time he was looking for. It is crucial
that both defenders know that they are looking for this double defence
and work accordingly.
Reasons
for the Zonal Defence 1 To
place the opposition in areas of the pitch with very few options
2 Be able to win the ball higher in the pitch
3 Avoid the defenders chasing needlessly after opposition forwards.
A
coach once told me that by using a small amount of mental energy,
you save yourself a huge amount of physical energy. I.e.: More
you think the less you have to run, thus saving yourself energy
for when it is actually needed.The
system does take time to perfect, and the keys are to communicate
well, and react quickly to situations. I call this an "Allplay",
as all 11 players are involved, and if 1 person is not aware or
fails in his role then the opposition can find a way out of the
pressurised situation. There is no place for man-to-man marking
in this system, except if the attackers near the defensive 25-yard
line. Here a lot of teams will now change to the man-to-man system,
as before communication is the critical part of the equation to
ensure a successful transition.
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