NEWS

Principles of Play #2 & 3

APRIL 22, 2024

After losing possession, John Jay Soccer's #2 Principle of Play emphasizes "Immediate Counter-Pressure on the Ball". This principle dictates that players nearest to the ball must quickly engage in pressing to disrupt the opponent's advance. The primary objective is to stifle any attempt at a quick counterattack and force the opponent into making hurried decisions by applying immediate pressure. The closest players must actively seek to close down the ball carrier, aiming to force them into making mistakes or conceding possession. A good counter-press will not only halt the ball carrier's forward progress up the field towards our defensive goal, but also force the opponent to drop his head and look at the soccer ball at his feet, disallowing him to survey the field and make a penetrating pass that breaks our defensive lines.

"Immediate Counter-Pressure on the Ball" is crucial for our program because it allows us to quickly regain possession, disrupt the opponent's momentum, and prevent them from launching a quick counterattack. High school players generally do not have the same level of tactical awareness or technical ability as professional and collegiate players, so applying pressure immediately after losing possession can exploit opponents' mistakes and create turnovers in more advanced positions, leading to scoring opportunities. Additionally, many opposing teams that we face feature fast-paced and direct styles of play, making it essential to quickly transition from defense to attack to maintain control of the game.

This aggressive pressing is often executed in pairs, with one player applying pressure and the other providing support by cutting off passing lanes and limiting the attacking player's options. The overarching goal is to regain possession within 10 seconds of losing the ball. This requires players to anticipate the opponent's actions rather than merely reacting to ball movement, ensuring a proactive and coordinated defensive effort.

Principle of Play #3 for the John Jay Soccer Program after losing possession is closely tied to Principle #2, and that is to "Delay the Opponent with the Ball." This approach focuses on slowing down the opponent's counterattack, giving our team time to shift gears from in to out of possession, and reorganize defensively. The closest defender to the ball carrier is tasked with slowing down the play, often by delaying the attacker's progress or forcing them to change direction. By impeding the attacker's advance, our defensive unit can regroup and get players behind the ball to establish a compact defensive shape.

Additionally, defenders aim to force the play to one side of the field, cutting it in half, and making our opponents more predictable and easier to defend against. This involves channeling the ball carrier towards the sidelines or into areas where defensive support is readily available. The objective is to limit the opponent's options and make it easier to win back possession.

Players also must focus on recovering quickly behind the ball to provide additional defensive cover. This ensures that there are enough players in defensive positions to deal with any potential threats.

Overall, the principle of "Delay the Opponent with the Ball" is aimed at disrupting the opponent's rhythm and preventing them from launching quick, dangerous attacks. It allows our team to reset defensively and maintain a solid defensive structure. You will notice that no where in any of the above descriptions does it mention becoming overly aggressive, over-committing, diving in, panicking, or fouling opponents. These are all counterproductive and sharply looked down upon by the John Jay coaching staff.

You can find a full list of the John Jay Soccer Principles of Play here.

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