left mid job in defending a high press

Archie DunnillCoach, England

To address coping with a high press in field hockey, you can focus on the following strategies:

1. Positioning:

• Central Defenders: Ensure that your central defenders position themselves centrally to block passing lanes through the middle. They should stay goal-side of attackers to prevent direct penetrations.
• Wide Defenders: Full-backs or wing-backs should position wider to cover the flanks and force opponents towards the sidelines. This reduces space in the center and makes it harder for opponents to cut inside.
• Midfielders: Midfielders play a vital role in cutting off passing options through the center. Apply pressure on the ball carrier to force them wide or backward, limiting central attacks.

1. Preventing Central Penetrations:

• Collective Pressing: Encourage team pressing to limit space and time for opponents on the ball, reducing their ability to exploit central areas.
• Communication: Effective communication is key to shifting and covering spaces as a unit. Organize the defense to prevent gaps in the center.
• Forcing Wide: Encourage players to channel opponents onto their weaker side or towards the sidelines, restricting central options.

For specific drills and sessions to work on defending against a high press and preventing opponents from cutting in, you can create a custom session plan tailored to these needs. Focus on drills that involve high-intensity pressing, quick transitions, and maintaining compact defensive shapes.

If you need further assistance in designing custom drills or sessions to address coping with a high press in field hockey, feel free to provide more details for tailored suggestions and guidance.