Defending

Defending - Closing Down from Behind

• Close down quickly as the ball travels
• Slow down as you approach the attacker
• Get in touch tight - prevent attacker from turning
• Bend the knees, stay sideways on to the ball
• Mirror the attackers feet
• Prepare for next action - delay or tackle

Defending - Closing Down from the Front

• Close down quickly
• Assess the flight as the ball travels
• Select the appropriate surface
• Arms out for balance
• Withdraw surface upon impact
• Direction of touch enables next action

Defending - The Block Tackle

• Position is side on
• Place non-tackling foot next to the ball by stepping forward
• Angle locked with toe pointed up
• Tackle with the foot moving away from the player
• Drive through the center of the ball
• Tackle using your full body weight

Defending - The Poke Tackle

• Poke the ball using the front foot (one closest to the ball)
• Lock the ankle
• Weight is on the back foot
• Poke the ball at an angle (diagonal)
• Body weight forward to gain possession