How to Keep Attackers at Bay

When your defender is the last man, if he jumps into a tackle and doesn't win it, the attacker is through on goal. So, you need to teach your players ways to hold up an opponent until help arrives, says David Clarke.

You don’t always need to tackle an opponent to dispossess them or slow their progress. Jockeying denies your opponent time and space, and it’s a good tactic to allow your team-mates to get back in position.

1. Tell your players to adopt an almost side-on position, with shoulders opened out slightly so that you provide a barrier to your opponent. This keeps the opposition in front of your player so he can see them.

Your players should keep their knees slightly bent, with their weight on the front of their feet, which makes it easier to change direction while they move backwards.

2. Make sure your players stay goal-side, and also in front of your opponent. They do this by turning off their back foot as they move backwards.

3. Tell them to stay within an arm’s length of their opponent to increase the pressure on them. They should have their arms slightly out to create more of a natural barrier. But make sure they don’t use them to push!

Key coaching tip: Don’t jump in!