Basics of Defending Set Plays

Set plays can be the difference between winning and losing a game. Teams must be well organized and practice often so that each player knows their responsibility in any given situation. Here are some basic tips for each set play.

Free Kicks

This is when the opposing team is in position to shoot on goal, or cross a dangerous ball into the box. Players should be given instructions to:

- Set a wall (Usually 2 - 5 players depending on where the foul is)
- Mark the remaining players
- Keep the defensive line even with the wall
- Properly position the goalkeeper
- How to clear the ball
- How to step up after the ball has been cleared
- Watch for trick plays

Corner Kicks

The way a team defends a corner kick varies but generally players should be given instructions to:

- How to defend against short corners
- Proper position of the goalkeeper
- How to clear the ball
- How to cover the post(s) and near spaces
- Watch for trick plays
- Mark the attackers
- How to step up after the ball has been cleared

Throw-ins

Throw-ins are often overlooked by teams but players should be given instructions to:

- Stay focused and alert
- Watch for long throw-ins
- Mark players running into dangerous spaces
- Mark the primary target from in front and behind if possible

Penalty Kicks

Penalty kicks are usually easy to set up. The goalkeeper should have plenty of practice trying to save penalty kicks while the rest of the players should stay alert and focused for rebounds.