1.
What is the first rule of good defense?
Correct Answer
C. Pressure the ball and the attacker as soon as possible
Explanation
The first rule of good defense is to pressure the ball and the attacker as soon as possible. This means that the defender should not wait for the attacker to make a move, but instead actively engage and put pressure on them. By doing so, the defender can disrupt the attacker's rhythm and limit their options, making it harder for them to create scoring opportunities. This proactive approach can help the defender regain possession of the ball and prevent the attacker from advancing towards the goal.
2.
If the first defender calls "I've got ball" what does the second defender say?
Correct Answer
B. I've got cover
Explanation
When the first defender calls "I've got ball," it means that they are marking the attacker with the ball. In response, the second defender would say "I've got cover" to indicate that they will provide support and cover any potential passing options or support players for the attacker. This ensures that both defenders are coordinating their defensive responsibilities effectively.
3.
What is the best tactic when pressuring the attacker with the ball?
Correct Answer
A. Slow them down and contain their movements so that your teammates have a chance to run back and help defend
Explanation
The best tactic when pressuring the attacker with the ball is to slow them down and contain their movements so that your teammates have a chance to run back and help defend. By doing so, you are buying time for your team to regroup and position themselves defensively, increasing the chances of successfully defending against the attack. This tactic also prevents the attacker from easily advancing towards the goal, giving your team a better opportunity to regain possession of the ball.
4.
Where should the second defender be?
Correct Answer
E. Between the two attackers AND slightly closer to your goal
Explanation
The second defender should be positioned between the two attackers and slightly closer to their own goal. This positioning allows the defender to effectively cover both attackers and prevent them from advancing towards the goal. Being slightly closer to the goal ensures that the defender is in a better position to intercept any passes or shots towards the goal, minimizing the attackers' chances of scoring.
5.
What is NOT the primary job of a defender?
Correct Answer(s)
B. Go wide so that your teammate can pass to you
C. Steal the ball by stabbing at it
D. Foul your opponent so that the play will stop and your team can recover
E. Allow the attacker to shoot on goal
Explanation
The primary job of a defender is to contain and delay the attacker, preventing them from advancing towards the goal. They should not go wide to receive a pass from their teammate, as that is the role of a midfielder or forward. Similarly, defenders should not try to steal the ball by stabbing at it, as this can lead to fouls or missed tackles. Foulling the opponent to stop the play and allowing the attacker to shoot on goal are also not the primary jobs of a defender.
6.
When running with an attacker that has the ball what side of the player should you be running on?
Correct Answer
A. Goal side
Explanation
When running with an attacker that has the ball, you should be running on the goal side of the player. This means positioning yourself between the attacker and the goal, in order to block their path and prevent them from scoring. Being on the goal side allows you to maintain a defensive position and effectively challenge the attacker's movements towards the goal.
7.
When in front of our goal you gain control of the ball and there is no immediate pressure on you where should you take the ball?
Correct Answer
C. To the outside and forward
Explanation
When in front of our goal and gaining control of the ball with no immediate pressure, it is best to take the ball to the outside and forward. This allows the player to create space, avoid potential defenders, and advance towards the opponent's goal. Taking the ball up the middle may lead to congestion and increase the risk of losing possession. Moving back towards our goal is counterproductive as it moves away from the opponent's goal. Holding the ball and waiting for more help may result in missed opportunities for attacking and scoring. Therefore, the best option is to take the ball to the outside and forward.
8.
If there is a lot of pressure in our 18 yard box and you get control of the ball what should be your first move?
Correct Answer
D. Clear it forwards and wide
Explanation
When there is a lot of pressure in our 18 yard box and we get control of the ball, the best option is to clear it forwards and wide. This allows us to relieve the pressure and move the ball away from our goal. By clearing it forwards and wide, we can create space and potentially start a counterattack. It is important to avoid carrying the ball through all of the pressure up the middle of the field, as this increases the risk of losing possession and conceding a goal. Passing back to the goalie or clearing it to the side lines may not be as effective in terms of maintaining control and creating attacking opportunities.
9.
When we kick the ball forward from our defensive third what should the defensive line do first?
Correct Answer
A. Push forward
Explanation
When we kick the ball forward from our defensive third, the defensive line should push forward. This is because pushing forward helps to close the gap between the defenders and the midfielders, making it harder for the opposing team to advance towards our goal. Pushing forward also allows the defenders to apply pressure on the opposing team's attackers, potentially forcing them to make mistakes or lose possession of the ball. By pushing forward, the defensive line can effectively support the team's attacking play and contribute to maintaining control of the game.