What it means
Centre-backs and full-backs hold inconsistent depths. Gaps appear between defenders, and the line offside trap or step-up is mistimed.
Issue detected
Disconnected Defensive Line
Why it hurts your team
Disconnected back lines invite through-balls into the channels and 1v1 duels in dangerous areas. Errors compound as the line loses confidence in collective movement.
What to fix
- Drill the back line in isolation: step-up, drop, and slide on consistent cues.
- Set communication rules, only one defender calls the line.
- Reduce the depth differential between centre-backs and full-backs to under 3 metres.
- Use video to expose moments when the line breaks during in-possession phases.
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