Defensive positioning?

[dunitlongpole]

Hello.

I have a quick question...

I am a defenceman. When guarding an attackmen who has the ball (not at x), I play topside and angle him down. Should I have my stick in the passing lane to the midfielder up top or should I have my stick in the passing lane down the middle so he can't hit a cutter?

This may be confusing but any help is appreciated!

[smooth87]

Neither. You want your stick up field (as in your head is facing the opposing goalie). You do that because you don't want the attackman beating you topside. An attackman is most dangerous when he ditates where to go, so you need to keep him on one side. Plus it's easier for the slide to come across then upfield.

[Holt D]

It may sound tough but try to keep your stick moving. If he looks like he going to the middie, move you stick that direction, or if to a cutter try to block the lane. Just dont repostion your body, always play head up. Remember it's better to give up a pass then to give up a goal.

(Note - there is execptions to playing head up but no need to get in to that. People have thier different opinions on it.)