Thursday, January 13, 2011

How to Play the Offsides Trap

There are many different offensive and defensive strategies involved in the game of soccer. One defensive strategy that is used very often is the Offsides Trap. This strategy can be very effective and can frustrate almost any attacking player when done correctly. Following is a brief description of what the offsides trap is and how to do it correctly.
The offsides trap is accomplished by having your back three defenders stay pushed up as far as possible when the attacking team is making their move. At the very last second before the ball is played, all three defenders push even further up leaving the last attacker in an offside position. This is a great tactic to use if it is done right, otherwise you're leaving your opponents open to go one on one with your goal keeper which rarely leaves a good result in your favor.
In order to ensure you do not leave the last attacking player onside you must have complete communication between your back three defenders. The outside defenders will always push a little further up then the sweeper, or center back, allowing him to make the move when the time is right.
"Pulling" the trap occurs right before the ball is played forward to the last attacker. When the center back sees that the ball is about to be played, he immediately sprints up three field three to four yards to ensure he leaves lots of space between him and the last attacker. This will hopefully leave enough room for the linesman to see that the attacker is clearly offsides and award a free kick to your side.
If the center back mistimes this move, it will most certainly end in a one on one with your opposing striker and your goal keeper and likely a goal for the other team. So it is important that all three back defenders know their role and play it perfectly in order for this strategy to work.
Just like anything else in this sport, and life in general, practice makes perfect. Don't lose faith if your team cannot pull this off well in the beginning, they will begin to get the hang of it with time. Once they do, it will be hard for any opposing offense to get through your defenses and have a clear shot on goal. Remember the less the other team scores, the more likely you are to win the match!
Eric Street is a soccer fan, player, and coach from Florida. He has been playing this sport for over 15 years and loves to share his knowledge of the game with others.
Visit Eric's websites on Soccer Strategy for more helpful tips and advice!

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