Fullbacks in soccer must limit the movements of their opponents to prevent attacks on goal. A proper defense prevents opponents from making effective passes to teammates, taking shots on goal or dribbling the ball down the field. Fullbacks participate in team-based defensive tactics, such as forcing opponents to execute a play in a particular direction that favors the defenders. Your coach may design defensive maneuvers for fullbacks, so practice these plays carefully. Effective communication is important; listen to other fullbacks and the goalie to ensure you stay abreast of the movements.
Step 1
Fall back into defensive positions when the other team gains possession of the ball. The goalie should scan the field to look for holes in the defense and communicate any problems to nearby fullbacks. Listen for those commands and move quickly to fill in any gaps.
Step 2
Position yourself by marking an opponent without the ball and standing between her and the goal. Monitor the action around the ball and the marked opponent's movements at the same time. Maintain a distance that allows you to intercept the ball should the opponent's teammate attempt a pass, but not so close that the opponent can sprint past before you can turn and follow.
Step 3
Block the marked opponent if he gets the ball. Jockey from side to side to prevent the player from passing. Perform a block tackle by using your instep to stop the ball if your opponent attempts to move around you.
Step 4
Shoulder your opponent if you're running alongside each other. This forces your opponent away from the ball, allowing you or a teammate to take it. Note that this move is only legal when the shoulders of the two players touch, so don't let your shoulders contact your opponent's back or chest.
Step 5
Force the other team to commit to a particular direction by working with the other fullbacks to execute a comprehensive strategy. For example, sending the ball up the sides of the field is a typical attack maneuver, so a standard defensive strategy is to force opponents to stay near the center of the field, where defensive coverage is denser.
Step 6
Clear the ball if you win it. Pass it to the midfielders, who will bring the ball upfield and into the other team's half.
Tips and Warnings
- Kick the ball away with a sliding tackle only if you have no other options. Be prepared to get up quickly and run after your opponent if your attempt fails.
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