Move the ball with a good first touch out of tackling range

  • It gives you time to assess the next thing to do, e.g. pass, protect the ball, run with it, square-up up to the defender.
  • It allows you time to get your body between the defender and the ball to protect it when under pressure
  • It forces a defender to chase you in order to make a challenge and prevents them from recovering quickly
  • It will encourage a defender to change direction to get between the ball and the goal, even when the defender is five metres away. This gives you more time and opens up new passing angles to team mates
  • You don’t get caught in possession and or challenged as much
  • It gives you more time to make your next decision
  • This does not mean you cannot do a first time pass or shot

NWS Spirit Mens First Grade example