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how to protect yourself as gs/ga from defense in circle

I was playing GS today and marked by a very tall GK. As I was watching the ball come forward, I moved to the top of the D but she didn't stay with me and remained behind me. I couldn't see her and was unsure if I should stay close to her to be aware of where I could move, or to just move where I wanted. My back was turned to her as I was facing where the ball was, should I be side on to see her in my peripheral vision but not stay with her, or should I keep marking her to hold her then come forward when appropriate? I would be grateful for any advice, thank you,

netballcrazy Player, England

2 answers

ANSWERS

Eleanor DurrPlayer, England

Hi Netballcrazy,

Good question. As an attacker you are in control - you decide where you want to go and where you want to be - it is the defender`s job to stop this. If you are against a tall GK I would, of course, advise you not to hold behind the player, firstly as this is a very hard ball in and it is likely to be intercepted and secondly, your players are unlikely to be able to see you or where you want the ball. Therefore, I would suggest you hold your front space - so try to get the defender on your back, as close to the post as possible as this will allow you more room - as seen by the diagram attached. Your players will then be able to see exactly where you want the ball and the defender is likely to contact if they go for the ball. If you are doing a front hold, it is important you maintain an upright body positioning, do not bend over as this will allow the defender to get an arm in. Also, keep slightly adjusting your body to keep the defender where you want her.

If the GK is forcing you high in the circle (e.g. towards the edge of the D) this is fine, take this front space and when you receive the ball, split land and step into the foot closer to the post. The defender will then have to move 3ft back from that foot. If you are still not comfortable shooting from there, pass the ball back out quickly and repeat - it is unlikely the defender would be quick enough to get around.

Alternatively, be a moving shooter - this means using more of the third, coming out and back into the circle. For example, instead of simply holding your space in the circle, drive out to offer for the ball, this is likely to draw your GK out and leave the circle open for you or the GA to penetrate the space.

Hope this helps.