When the Oppo is short on players and don't want to equalize

May 9, 2025

Context:

  • When the opposition is short on players (1 or 2 down) and chooses not to equalize with us.

  • They often play short in their forward line to compensate.

Tactical Adjustments:

  • We respond by placing our spare defenders in our forward line instead of our backline.

  • This:

    • Creates equal numbers in our defensive half,

    • But adds extra numbers in our forward line.

Strategic Benefits:

  • Enhances the effectiveness of our Forward Defensive Pressure (FWD pattern).

  • Overloads the forward zone with more options, making it harder for the opposition to defend and rebound effectively.

  • Forces the opposition to make tough decisions with limited numbers, making their counterattack less effective.

Drills – Match Simulation:

  • 8v6 drill in the forward line.

  • Use the 50-metre arc (forward half) as the designated area.

  • Run this as a replica of a real game-day scenario to build decision-making and pressure-handling skills.

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