Opponent Using Spare Behind the Ball – Wind Advantage Scenario 6v7

ontext:

• Opponent uses a spare defender behind the ball to protect against our wind advantage.

• This leaves us with a spare defender too (6v5).

A) Tactical Use of Our Spare Defender

1. Use as an extra mid at stoppages—assist and create overloads.

2. Act as a link in transition (e.g. 2v2 becomes 3v2 advantage).

3. Run overlap handball chains past their spare to drive forward.

4. Bypass their spare defender through quick play or short combos.

5. Make transitions dynamic with leg-speed players cascading forward.

6. Avoid rushing forward entries—no need to surge without structure.

7. Use our spare at stoppages to generate structured transition, not just possession.

B) Equalise If Needed – Match Their Spare in Forward 50

• Shift numbers to 7v7 in our forward line.

• Maintain 5v5 in defence, creating:

  • Def: 5v5

  • Mids: 6v6

  • Forwards: 7v7

• Balance when needed based on scoreboard, pressure, or opposition dominance.

C) If We’re Dominant in Forward Line

• Do not adjust if their spare defender is not impacting.

• Keep our spare (6v5 etc.) to retain midfield and back half advantage.

Drills – Application of ABC Scenarios

• All 3 scenarios can be played out, rotated, and adapted for any personnel.

• Create variations based on positional strengths and match system templates.

Defence Focus:

1. Protect & Anticipate Drill – simulate opposition forward entries with spare.

2. Grid Kicking Drill (6v5) – practice composure, switching, and intercept kicks.

Midfield Focus:

1. Use spare at stoppages to win clean ball.

2. Hold/paddle ball under pressure until an advantage presents.

3. Execute quick hands to spare player in structured clearance scenario.

Forward Line Focus (7v6):

1. Constant leading movement:

   • Tick leads

   • Forward-Up-Back (FUB) pattern

   • Dirty ball entry (stop their spare from intercepting)

   • Rotating lane changes

2. Goal: Deny spare defender impact.

Coaching Principle:

React – Counteract – Create Positive Outcome
Use the spare wisely and always play to the advantage it offers—either to dominate possession or counter opposition systems.