The L Clear in Men’s Lacrosse: Strategy, Execution, and When to Use It
The L Clear is a fundamental clearing strategy used in men’s lacrosse to transition the ball from the defensive end to the offensive end of the field. Named for the “L” shape formed by the players’ positioning from the goalie’s perspective, this clear is known for its simplicity and effectiveness, especially for new or younger teams learning the basics of clearing.
Down Low
• Two Defensemen Down Low: Positioned even with the goalie in the defensive zone ready to walk up with him and be an outlet when needed.
Midfield
• Three players line up across the top of the defensive zone just over the midfield line
Execution of the L Clear
• Primary Targets:
• (Down Low Defensemen): Positioned close to the goalie for a safe, short outlet pass.
• Alternative Target:
• Positioned higher at the top of the restraining box away from the substation box. He is often open because much of the chaos is on the other side where the subs are taking place. It is also makes it easy for a draw a dump to move the ball up the field.
Key Considerations
• Dependency on defensemen and goalie to handle the ball
• The gap between the goalie/defensemen and the midfielders requires players to cover significant ground or make longer passes.
• Defensemen may need to carry the ball under pressure, which can be challenging if they are not strong ball handlers.
• Simplicity
• The formation is straightforward, making it easy for players to understand their roles and responsibilities.
• Ideal for young teams still developing their clearing strategies.
Advantages of the L Clear
1. Simplicity of Setup
• Easy to Implement: Minimal complexity allows for quick understanding and execution.
• Clear Roles: Players know where to position themselves and what their primary responsibilities are.
2. Away from the substation box
• Cleared space: Typically, especially at the younger levels there is a lot of commotion at the substitution box with players coming off and fresh players coming on. Space always benifits the players with the ball. Thus you want the clearing team to have tranquility and space which is more likely to happen opposite the substitution box.
3. Ideal for New Teams
• Learning Tool: Helps new or young players grasp the basics of clearing.
• Confidence Building: Simplifies decision-making under pressure.
4. Recognizing Open Players
• Predictable Passing Options: Players can anticipate where teammates will be. There is not a lot of on the fly movement. It is more that players need to get to a spot and then be ready to receive a pass.
• Quick Identification: Easier to find open players due to the structured formation.
Disadvantages of the L Clear
1. Space Between Players
• Long Passes Required: The distance between defensemen and midfielders may necessitate longer, riskier passes.
• Challenging for Defensemen: Carrying the ball upfield can be difficult for players who may not be the best ball handlers.
2. Vulnerability to Pressure
• Opposing Rides: Aggressive riding teams can exploit the gaps, applying pressure on defensemen and intercepting passes.
• Turnover Risk: Increased likelihood of losing possession due to long passes or pressure on less skilled ball handlers.
3. Limited Support Options
• Isolation: Defensemen may find themselves isolated with limited immediate passing options if midfielders are too far upfield.
• Adjustment Needed: Teams may need to modify positioning to provide better support.
Adjustments for Younger or Less Experienced Teams
Bringing Midfielders Closer
• Position Midfielders Lower
• Have the midfielders come down closer to the top of the restraining box rather than near the midfield line.
• Benefits:
• Reduces the distance for passes.
• Provides more immediate support for defensemen carrying the ball.
• Eases the pressure on defensemen by offering closer passing options.
Emphasizing Short Passes
• Focus on Safe Passes
• Encourage the use of shorter, more manageable passes to maintain possession.
• Practice passing drills that simulate game scenarios to build confidence.
Enhancing Ball Handling Skills
• Skill Development
• Invest time in improving the stick skills of defensemen and midfielders.
• Drills:
• Ground ball pickups under pressure.
• Carrying the ball while being defended.
• Passing and catching on the run.
Situations Ideal for Using the L Clear
For New or Developing Teams
• Learning the Basics
• The simplicity of the L Clear makes it an excellent starting point for teams learning to clear effectively.
Against Less Aggressive Rides
• Low Pressure Scenarios
• When the opposing team applies minimal pressure during the clear, the L Clear can be executed with ease.
Building Team Confidence
• Success in Execution
• Successfully completing clears using this formation can build team morale and confidence.
When to Consider Alternative Clearing Strategies
Facing Aggressive Riding Teams
• High Pressure
• If opponents apply significant pressure, forcing turnovers, a more dynamic or protective clearing strategy may be necessary.
Defensemen Struggling with Ball Handling
• Skill Limitations
• If defensemen consistently lose possession when carrying the ball, consider strategies that rely less on them advancing the ball.
Predictability
• Opponents Adapt
• If teams anticipate the L Clear, they may set traps or adjust their ride to exploit its weaknesses.
Conclusion
The L Clear in men’s lacrosse is a straightforward and effective strategy, particularly suited for new or younger teams learning the fundamentals of clearing the ball. By forming an “L” shape with two defensemen down low and one defenseman and three midfielders across the top, teams create a formation that simplifies decision-making and clarifies player responsibilities.
While the L Clear has its disadvantages, such as the large space between players and reliance on defensemen’s ball-handling skills, adjustments can be made to mitigate these issues. Bringing midfielders closer to the defensemen and emphasizing short passes can enhance the effectiveness of this clear.
Understanding the advantages and limitations of the L Clear allows coaches and players to make informed decisions about when to use this strategy. With practice and proper execution, the L Clear can be a valuable tool in a team’s clearing arsenal, promoting teamwork and building foundational lacrosse skills.
Key Takeaways
• Formation: The L Clear forms an “L” shape with two defensemen near the goalie and one defenseman with three midfielders across the top.
• Simplicity: Easy to set up and execute, ideal for new or less experienced teams.
• Advantages: Flexibility in who can advance the ball, clear recognition of open players, and minimal complexity.
• Disadvantages: Large spaces can lead to challenging passes and vulnerability to pressure from aggressive rides.
• Adjustments: Bringing midfielders closer and focusing on short passes can improve the effectiveness of the L Clear.
• Situational Use: Best used when facing less aggressive rides or when developing basic clearing skills.
By thoroughly understanding and practicing the L Clear, teams can improve their transition game, maintain possession, and set up successful offensive opportunities.
