First and Second Slide Strategies Without a Crease Player

In men’s lacrosse, effective defense relies on coordinated team movements, especially when an opponent beats a defender one-on-one. Sliding is a fundamental defensive concept where another defender leaves his assignment to help the beaten teammate. When there’s no offensive player in the crease (the area directly in front of the goal), the defensive strategy for sliding changes. This guide explains in detail where the first and second slides should come from in a man-to-man defense under these circumstances.

Understanding Slides in Man-to-Man Defense

What Is a Slide?

• Slide Definition: A slide is when a defender leaves his assigned attacker to assist a teammate who is about to be beaten, preventing the offensive player from getting a clear path to the goal.

Importance of Sliding

• Prevent Scoring Opportunities: Sliding helps stop attackers before they can take high-percentage shots.

• Maintain Defensive Integrity: Proper slides ensure all offensive players are accounted for, even when defensive assignments change.

Defensive Scenario: No Offensive Player in the Crease

• Situation: The offense has no player positioned in the crease area.

• Implication: Defenders are not tied up guarding a crease attacker and can adjust their sliding strategy accordingly.

First Slide: Comes from the Adjacent Defender

Where Should the First Slide Come From?

• Adjacent Defender: The first slide should come from the defender who is adjacent (next to) the on-ball defender who is being beaten.

Reasons for Sliding from the Adjacent Defender

• Proximity: The adjacent defender is closest and can provide immediate assistance.

• Speed of Response: Quickest way to pressure the attacker before they reach a dangerous area.

• No Crease Responsibility: With no offensive player in the crease, the adjacent defender doesn’t leave a critical area unguarded.

Execution of the First Slide

1. Recognition

• The adjacent defender must quickly recognize that the on-ball defender is being beaten.

• Awareness is crucial; constant observation of both the ball and one’s own assigned attacker.

2. Communication

• Verbal Cues: Shout “I’m hot!” or “Slide!” to signal the intention to slide.

• Non-Verbal Cues: Use body language and eye contact to coordinate with teammates.

3. Sliding Technique

• Approach Angle: Slide in a path that cuts off the attacker’s direct route to the goal.

• Body Positioning: Stay low and balanced to absorb contact and control the attacker.

• Stick Positioning: Keep the stick in the passing lane to discourage easy passes.

4. Commitment

• Once the decision to slide is made, commit fully to avoid hesitation that can be exploited by the attacker.

Second Slide: Comes from the Next Adjacent Defender or Recovering Defender

Where Should the Second Slide Come From?

• Next Adjacent Defender: The defender next to the one who made the first slide.

• Recovering Defender: Alternatively, the on-ball defender who was initially beaten recovers and covers the open man.

Reasons for the Second Slide from These Defenders

• Covering the Open Attacker: When the adjacent defender slides, his assigned attacker becomes unguarded.

• Maintaining Match-Ups: Ensures that all offensive players are marked, preventing easy scoring opportunities.

Execution of the Second Slide

1. Anticipation

• The next adjacent defender must anticipate the first slide and be ready to act immediately.

• Understanding the flow of play helps in predicting when a slide is necessary.

2. Communication

• Verbal Cues: Shout “Second slide!” or “I’ve got two!” to inform teammates.

• Clarity: Clear communication prevents confusion and defensive breakdowns.

3. Rotation

• Move to Cover: Quickly shift to cover the attacker left open by the first slider.

• Adjust Positions: Other defenders may need to rotate to ensure all attackers are covered.

4. Recovery by the Beaten Defender

• Regain Position: The defender who was beaten should recover and find the next most dangerous offensive player to mark.

• Communicate: Let teammates know who they are picking up.

Summary of Sliding Roles

First Slide Responsibilities

• Defender: Adjacent to the on-ball defender.

• Actions:

• Recognize and communicate the need to slide.

• Execute the slide with proper technique.

• Focus on stopping the ball carrier’s progress.

Second Slide Responsibilities

• Defender: Next adjacent defender or recovering defender.

• Actions:

• Anticipate the need to cover the open attacker.

• Communicate the second slide.

• Rotate and adjust defensive assignments.

Key Points to Remember

• Communication Is Critical

• All defenders must actively communicate to ensure seamless sliding and coverage.

• Use clear, loud verbal cues.

• Awareness of the Field

• Constantly monitor both the ball and the positions of offensive players.

• Understand the offensive setup to anticipate slides.

• Quick Decision-Making

• Hesitation can lead to scoring opportunities for the opponent.

• Trust your instincts and commit to your decisions.

• Team Coordination

• Sliding is a team effort; everyone must work together.

• Be prepared to adjust and rotate as the play develops.

Conclusion

In man-to-man defense without an offensive player in the crease, the first slide should come from the adjacent defender to the on-ball defender, providing immediate support. The second slide then comes from the next adjacent defender or the recovering defender to ensure all offensive players remain covered. Effective sliding in this scenario hinges on strong communication, rapid recognition, and coordinated movements among all defensive players. By understanding and executing these roles, the defense can maintain its integrity and prevent the offense from capitalizing on defensive lapses.

Remember: The success of sliding defense lies not just in individual effort but in the collective coordination of the entire defensive unit. Practice these principles regularly to enhance teamwork and defensive performance.