|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The Zone and penalty corners were made for each other. The whole game is at stake every time the referee makes that two handed gesture. It is a tense moment for the offense and for the defense as well.
Offensively, the players take up their normal positions but with one major difference. Every player has an identifying number. Every player knows who they are and every player will know exactly what the sequence of events will be. This is critical. All too often, a team enters a game with one maybe two predetermined plays for the penalty corner. Now the number of combinations are limitless and can be arranged instantly. The striker simply calls out a number. That player is the one she will be passing to and who will take the shot. How many times have you seen players waiting for the corner to begin with no clue as to where the ball is going? Too many! At the whistle the striker launches the ball to the called player, everyone knows who's getting the ball and where the rebound will come from. Calling two numbers will result in the first player passing to the second, who then shoots. You can arrange for any sequence you want but the most important result is that everyone knows what's happening. This can only increase your scoring opportunities. The defense will have no idea what's going to happen or how. The illustrations show some of the versatility of calling numbers. These combinations are just examples of what could be done. The theory of simplicity should always considered and two numbers should be the limit as timing will be a factor. Plays using more passes and other deceptions should be given a status of their own and rehearsed as an individual play.
Defensively, the primary tactic is to rush the receiver of the pass and either intercept or break up the play. Only one player should be attacking the shooter while the others are guarding the open areas on either side of the goalkeeper. Too many times I have seen all three defenders rush the shooter and watch as the shooter passed the ball to an open teammate who had snuck in from behind and score. It is important that the defenders do not extend themselves too far as this will put them out of position to clear the rebound. You do not want opposing players behind the defense! Each defender guards her zone in relation to the attack with the goalkeeper focusing upon the shooter and the subsequent shot.
 One number call out |
 Two number combination |
 Three number combination |
One of the more useless deployments occurs when the corner is executed and the remaining defenders sprint from the center line toward the "D" to help out. This is utterly useless. They never get there in time. The links should be sprinting into the receiving position for the outlet pass and the forwards should be in position to turn the corner into an attack opportunity. There is always a lot of wide open spaces in the attackers end of the field. One or two quick passes, all things that are rehearsed again and again in practice, and you have a two or three on one situation in your favor. Next time you face a corner situation look at the opposing defence there is usually only one or two players remaining on defense. Everyone else is in your zone. All it takes is an interception and a drive to an open space upfield and you will have a terrific scoring opportunity. Those taking the penalty corner will never get back in time to stop you. In sounds simpler than it is but with practice and discipline this can give your team tremendous opportunities.