Who plays where? The Defence.

This is a vexing question, which is probably not what anyone wants in a blog, but I propose to do so in three stages. This week the backline.

Typically the back consists of a keeper and four defenders in one of several configurations. My preferred arrangement is two central backs and two wing backs. All positions must work in harmony, and all need certain unique skill sets, as each has unique duties on the field.

The wing backs, left and right have need of certain physical assets in particular strength, speed and endurance. These players are required to defend the flanks, as well as prevent crosses. They are also critical components in the attack in carrying the ball down the wings and overloading the defence by adding width.

This is why they need to be fast and strong. Look at current Liverpool wing backs, Glen Johnson, Martin Kelly,  Danny Wilson and Fabio Aurelio, all strong, all willing to attack and defend. Play both ends of the pitch, willing to commit to attack and get back to defend even quicker.

The center backs are the defensive co-ordinators. They must be quick, fearless in their challenges and strong in the air. They need to control the center of the pitch, pushing the attackers wide and preventing penetrating runs and passes. Currently Carragher, and Skrtel carry the bulk of this job for Liverpool, but many others have contributed to the job as well.

The biggest job is stopping up the middle of the pitch and clearing the ball when dangerous situations arise. They are also invaluable for lengthening the pitch if the ball needs to be played back to switch the point of attack. A secondary role occurs when in the attacking third of the field, they can volley shots back at the net. This was common for Emlyn Hughes and for Sami Hyppia in their days at Anfield. Jamie Carragher is no slouch at this either.

So defenders, do it all. They must be patient in defence, quick to attack, cool under pressure, and an ability to see both the attacking and defending possibilities in a game, all at the same time. If you find a good one, she's worth her weight in gold!

You Never Walk Alone and Man to Man Marking

I have savoured the last few days enjoying, no, absolutely feasting on Liverpool's defeat of Chelsea. Not because of the presence of Torres. Not because I hate Chelsea (I admit I am not a big fan of them, but I don't hate them). Not because of anything other than seeing a team play well.

All components worked together. Back to front, front to back. No one player was doing anything other than playing for a team, and as a team. The "politics" of soccer is not that of a capitalism, but one of community. It was the socialism of Shankly, where one player was part of a whole. And that was on display for the first time in a long time in the Liverpool squad. Chelsea isn't defeated easily, and only when all members of a team are playing together.

BRIGHT LIGHTS

The best thing I have seen recently is the usurper Martin Kelly. He has usurped the right back position from Glen Johnson, who appears to be refinding his form on the left side of the pitch. So somethings change and others get better.

Also Meireles. Wow. Now he cannot stop scoring, and not easy goals either, most of them off of the volley or half volley. They look good and when on target are unstoppable .

The Passing Game and Man to Man Marking

The pass and move theory was subscribed to Liverpool early on and whether it was invented there or not it results in the most attractive forms of attacking football. It also presents extreme challenges for defenders in a game.

In a session the other night I divided the pitch into three zones. The two outside zones were 10 X 20 and the centre zone was 30 x 20. In each end zone it is one v one and the centre zone it is 3 v 3. the objective is simple the ball has to pass from one end to the other through the players in the end through the middle to the other side and then back. All players have man to man marking assignments. This drill requires constant passing motion to score goals, and constant defensive pressure, especially in the middle zone , to intercept the ball and prevent scoring. Encourage contact, shielding and strong shoulder challenges. It is a very tiring drill when executed properly and regular breaks are required.

Walk On

Hal White