Defending

Apparently Crawley Town's Defense Can Bend Space-Time

We need Stephen Hawking to explain how Crawlry Town's defense kept the ball from going into the net on this play against Accrington Stanley.

MSN Left Dizzy After Being Destroyed By Barca Teammates In The Rondo

Sir Alex Ferguson famously quipped before the 2009 Champions League Final that Barcelona "get you on that carousel and they make you dizzy with their passing.” The rhythm and tempo of their passing makes opponents feel as though they’re chasing ghosts around the pitch.

Look How Hyped This Dude Is About His Goal-Line Clearance

Defenders don't normally get that hyped about stuff. The occasional goal, sure, but when it comes to defense defenders tend to perpetuate that strong, silent-type stereotype. Making a good defensive play, getting into position for the next play and not smiling or showing any emotion at all seems to be the copnvention.

And then we have Australian left back Aziz Behich, who made a pretty good defensive play for Turkish club Bursaspor and then lost his mind.

The Man Who Assisted Messi More Than Anyone Else Is Reportedly Leaving FC Barcelona

UPDATE: Alves' transfer to Juventus is official:

Study Says Dejan Lovren Is The Best Center Back In The Premier League

A study from the CIES Football Observatory quantifying performance of players has named Liverpool center back Dejan Lovren as the best center back in the EPL. Other results include Cesc Fabregas as best defensive midfielder.

The Face-Save Is The Newest Trend In Soccer

Soccer, like all sports, is a game of unpredictability. No two situations are alike, and players must constantly be willing to adapt in order to succeed. This season, the pinnacle of this adaptation is the face-save by the most trend-forward goal keepers across the globe. 

First Defender

To keep the attacker from gaining ground, it’s important to ensure the right first defender positioning. This technique provides an important defensive skill for pressuring the ball handler—and is especially important if you’re a first defender. The idea is to delay your opponent, deny penetration and destroy the play with a tackle. Start by pressuring the handler so they can’t move forward as you funnel them into a small area. Keep your feet moving and eyes on the ball. Then be patient, and avoid the temptation to tackle too early since most teams win the ball with an interception.

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