A soccer sweeper is the last line of outfield defense on a soccer team. A sweeper will sit back 5 to 10 yards behind the other defenders to give herself a head start for any long balls over the top, or to cover for teammates who get beaten off the dribble or by through runs.
Tackling
The soccer sweeper must possess good tackling ability and one-on-one defensive skills. The sweeper being the last line of defense has no cover if he gets beat. As a soccer sweeper you should practice one on one defensive play and tackling on a regular basis. Adopt a defensive stance in front of an attacker, and jockey them before attempting to tackle when you are sure you will win the ball. As a sweeper, if you dive into a tackle and miss, you have no cover so patience and timing are crucial elements of your defending. Former United States international Marcelo Balboa advises that a defender should not tackle unless necessary. Balboa said the most important thing during defensive play is to "contain the forward and prevent him from penetrating."
Communication
The position of soccer sweeper allows you to see the entire game unfold in front of you. This places primary importance on the communication of the sweeper in a soccer team. The sweeper is responsible for letting the defenders and midfielders in front of her know of open players behind them or in blind spots. When playing sweeper you should constantly make teammates aware of open players behind them, or let them know if they are outnumbered and need help in their area. When communicating with a teammate call loudly and early, address your teammates by name to get their attention.
Positional Awareness
The soccer sweeper is a vital defensive position as if he is beaten the opposition soccer team is clean through on goal. The sweeper must watch the game develop in front of them and anticipate the intention of the attacking soccer team. When a midfielder has the ball you should read their body language, if they are under no defensive pressure and look up to the forwards expect a through ball. Watch the runs of the forwards and you will be able to see where the attack is headed. Reading the game like this will allow you to be a step quicker in your defensive play and cut attacks off before they get into a threatening position. Sometimes a sweeper will need to go out wide to cut out through balls; when you do this, communicate with your stopper so she can fill in for you and not leave the team exposed centrally.
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