8 Principles for Coaching the Back Four

with Mick Lyon,
University of Indiana Head Women's Soccer Coach

Coach Lyon puts his defensive philosophy on display in this clinic presentation. A major part of building a defensive unit is coaching the back four. Defending is "an art", according to Lyon, and he feels that attitude and intelligence are mainstays. These characteristics can help you adapt when short of athleticism. A main concept for the back four is team shape, which is broken down into eight pieces. Holding the back four indicates that the unit works together as a group. Lyon believes that token pressure can only be used if directional. He is a believer in real pressure, which makes the opponent uncomfortable. The back four must slide, fill the space and work together. Recovery is a crucial element in back four play also. Tackling the ball puts the pressure on the other team. Counter attack is another key to successfully coaching the back four. Lyon says it is important to include the goalkeeper in your game play, also. On an overhead outline, Lyon shows eight elements of holding the back four. Keeping the ball in front allows you to adjust and read. Depth is a concept that is directly related to your teams' goal. The 3 & 1 and 1 & 3 is a concept that must be mastered to play the back four. Lyon explains communication and dropping with a purpose. Moving and sliding as a unit covers for wide holes that are constantly being created. Because getting beat is a part of the game, recovery is an important aspect of this concept. A distinction is made between driving and tackling. Tackling is a calculated search for the ball. A player should always tackle hard in attempts to win the ball. Defenders are taught to counter attack by moving the play to the opposite side of the field. To cement this teaching, he uses actual game footage to fully explain the eight principles. This DVD can be a tool to strengthen your defense, team communication, and gain a greater understanding of how to keep your opponent from scoring goals.

2006.

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