Defenseive Stance

Most people when they start playing soccer, want to play offense. In all actuality, the defense is the most important part of a team. Some people argue the point that without the offense there would be no goals produced, but others may say that without defenders the other team will score on you. The most famous defensive quote is, "The Defense wins championships, the offense is just there." I'm not siding with either of them because I think soccer is a joint effort between the defense and offense. I play both sides of the game. on my high school team, I play forward, but on my club team i usually play in the stopper position of a back four diamond. to be a successful defender you need to learn the basics.

Step 1: Determine whether you or one of your teammates should pressure the ball first. This may be difficult due to the position of the attacking player. The rule of thumb is the closet person pressures first. (I use the word pressure various times, which means to attack, or go for the ball.)
Step 2: Step up to the player attacking, with a slight bend in the knees and one arm length away. You want to be able to reach out and touch the player while defending. Keep your feet moving and hands at your side.(hint: if they are doing step overs or any other move, look at their stomach)
Step 3: Try and decide when to tackle. You must go in hard! if you do not, you could get injured.
Step 4: Win the ball!