Overlaps and Underlaps

This week is all about creating space using overlapping and underlapping runs. 

An overlapping run is when a player runs around the outside of his teammate (who has the ball) to get open or create space for another teammate. The defender marking the ball now has to worry about two attackers. If the defender goes with the overlapping runner, the middle of the field opens up and the player with the ball can attack that space. If the defender stays with the player on the ball, the overlapping runner is often open.

An underlapping run is when a player runs to the inside of his teammate (who has the ball), drawing defenders and/or becoming open down the middle of the field. This can be dynamic when done well. Defenders can leave an entire attacking and midfield line behind with one run and touch up the middle of the field. 

Here’s a video of one of the greats combining overlaps and underlaps. Notice the effect each run creates on the field.

We will pair both of these with rondos later in the week and will be emphasizing them throughout practice and the scrimmage on Saturday.

I was very impressed with the boys recognition and exploitation of space last week. Underlapping and overlapping will be other ways in which they can exploit space behind defenders. 

See you tonight.

Michael