TIP #5 – THIRD DEFENDER
The THIRD Defender's main job is to
SUPPORT the first and second defenders by COVERING the attacking players and
space 20 yards and beyond from the ball.
If you are a Third Defender, you
will be looking for the attackers moving to the weak side or far post of the
goal. You also want to prevent the other team from sending a PENETRATING
pass to the weak side of the goal.
In our defensive third, the THIRD
defender has the job to keep herself in a position to prevent attackers from
getting too close to the goal by forcing the offsides rule on the attacking
team...more about this later.
There are times that the THIRD
defender may have to cover for the goalkeeper as she goes out for the ball.
Some common mistakes by our THIRD
defenders:
1. Pulling
too far toward the ball and leaving open space or open attackers on the far
side of the field.
2. Playing
too far back toward our goal and letting the attackers too close to our goal.
3. Facing
your goal and allowing attackers a clear shot on a crossed ball.
4. Not
communicating with SECOND defenders or the goalkeeper on the coverage.
Remember: the THIRD defender COVERS
the attacking players and space on the weak side of the field (over 20 yards
from the ball).
Now for the question (tada!):
Describe what is meant by the "weak side" of the field.
