Hold and protect space

Setup

1. GS and GA in the circle, marked by GK (gk) and GD (gd).
2. WA on the circle edge with the ball as the feeder.

How it runs

1. gk steps round to front GS; GS sits wide and holds gk there, protecting the space behind.
2. WA lobs into the space by the post as GS releases to meet it.
3. GS lands, balances and shoots; GA and gd play the rebound.
4. Six goes, then swap shooters and defenders.

Coaching points

• Hold with a wide, low base and the body, never the arms or hands.
• Know where the space is before the ball comes: hold away from it.
• Release late, on the feeder's eyes, and take the ball at its highest point.
• Feeder: high and soft into the space, not at the shooter.

Common mistakes

• Pushing or hooking the defender with the arms, which is contact.
• Releasing too early so the defender recovers the space.
• Feeding before the shooter has released.