Losing Tight Markers
Throughout a game there will be many occasions when a player is marked tightly, particularly in and around the penalty box and the central midfield area. Many teams will designate a defender as a "man to man" marker to
nullify a key player on the opponent's team. Often the defender will try to intimidate the player physically and psychologically and throw them off their game. When this happens, the player must be disciplined and patient.
Once the players get into an ongoing argument with his marker, he has lost the battle. It is important to pick and choose your times to make explosive runs for the ball. One should lull the marker into a false sense of comfort by making runs at half pace, then, when the time is right, explode away from the defender for the ball.
Considerations for making runs when being marked tight:
If you want the pass into the space in front of you, take the defender deep and away from the ball, then explode back into the space created.
If you want the ball played into the space behind the marker, bring the defender with you towards the ball, then turn and explode into the space you have created behind the defender.
Use the marker as a springboard by pushing tight on the defenders chest and force them on their heels as you are ready to run for the ball.
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