attacking

Archie DunnillCoach, England

Hi Victor,

Breaking down the opponent's defence in netball requires a combination of strategic play, teamwork, and individual skills. Here are some effective tactics and strategies to help your team beat the opponent's defence:

1. Quick Ball Movement:

• Emphasise fast and accurate passing between players.
• Quick ball movement can catch defenders off guard and create spaces for attacking players.

2. Rotation and Switching Positions:

• Encourage players to rotate positions and switch with teammates.
• This movement can confuse defenders and create mismatches, providing opportunities for attacking players to get free.

3. Triangle Passing:

• Forming triangles on the court can create passing options and open up space.
• Work on quick triangular passing to maintain possession and exploit gaps in the defence.

4. Feints and Dodges:

• Teach players how to use feints and dodges to fake out defenders.
• Swift changes in direction can help attackers evade defenders and create scoring opportunities.

5. Timing and Off-the-Ball Movement:

• Emphasise the importance of timing in movement.
• Players without the ball should make well-timed cuts and movements to receive passes in advantageous positions.

Archie DunnillCoach, England

6. Screening or Blocking:

• Set up screens or blocks to impede defenders and create space for teammates.
• Players without the ball can use their bodies to shield defenders and allow a teammate to receive a pass unmarked.

7. Attacking the Baseline:

• Encourage attackers to drive towards the baseline.
• This can force defenders to make decisions and create passing lanes or shooting opportunities.

8. Use of Deception:

• Incorporate deceptive moves, such as fake passes or sudden changes in direction.
• Confusing defenders with deceptive plays can create openings in the defense.

9. Variety in Attacking Styles:

• Introduce different attacking styles, such as playing a high-tempo game or adopting a patient and controlled approach.
• Changing the rhythm of play can keep the defence guessing.

10. Overhead Passing:

• Teach and practice accurate overhead passes.
• Overhead passes can help bypass defenders and quickly move the ball into the attacking

Archie DunnillCoach, England

11. Utilize Shooters Effectively:

• Ensure your shooters are positioned well and are comfortable with both short and long-range shots.
• Work on creating optimal shooting opportunities for your goal shooters.

12. Quick Transitions:

• Capitalize on turnovers and quickly transition from defence to attack.
• Catch the opponent off guard during moments of transition.

13. Create Two-on-One Situations:

• Strategically create situations where two attackers can engage with one defender.
• This can create numerical advantages and increase the likelihood of a successful attack.

14. Adaptability:

• Train your players to read the game and adapt to the opponent's defensive strategy.
• Recognise and exploit weaknesses in the defence as they emerge during the game.

15. Team Coordination:

• Develop a strong understanding among teammates regarding each other's playing styles and preferences.
• Effective communication and coordination are key to breaking down the opponent's defence.

Consistent practice, effective communication, and a mix of these strategies will contribute to your team's ability to beat the opponent's defence. Encourage creativity and adaptability in your players, allowing them to make decisions based on the flow of the game.

Hope this helps.

Archie