Knock out lines of pass and support the first defender

  • Players cutting out lines of pass close and deeper than the first defender offers natural cover for the first defender.
  • If the ‘first defender’ is beaten by a dribble, and you are cutting out lines of pass close to the first defender, you have to close the opponent and become the ‘first defender’
  • The roles between defenders from first to the next supporting defender change (often the second defender) whenever a pass is made and the defenders are still close to the ball

Why is it important

  • Players providing support close to the ball and knocking out lines of pass make penetration much harder for the opposition
  • Supporting can be swarming in front or ambushing