Forrester PE Dept

PRINCIPLES OF PLAY

 

PENETRATION

 

Definition

This is the ability to move into space, break through and/or get in behind a defence.

 

Impact on Performance

This can be achieved by players moving into space or driving at defenders in 1v1 or overload situations.

In football, the penetration pass is one of the first methods learned. Whether it be the simple "kick and chase" of the youth leagues, or the exquisite through-balls by today's world class stars. Penetration by pass is the quickest method of getting the ball towards the opposition’s goal. When done well, it can yield a large amount of success. Penetration in attack also requires other players in attack to make appropriate runs into space to receive the ball, while staying onside.

 

Forwards in Rugby can use penetration through employing a pick and drive tactic. This involves the forwards repeatedly driving the ball from a series of rucks. This leads to the forwards repeatedly breaking the gain line and penetrating through the defensive line resulting in the defence being on the back foot. This could also lead to the defence becoming more concentrated round the rucks and so when the ball is released along the backline we had much more space to break through and penetrate the defensive line. This would provide better attacking opportunities and allow our team to gain significant territory on the pitch. In hockey, attacking midfielders and strikers often use penetration when making a run in behind the defence to receive through passes from team-mates.  

 

In all sports a team who lacks penetration in attack is unlikely to be successful as they will not be able to get past a well organised defence are and unlikely to create any scoring opportunities. Many teams have had a large share of possession but lack the ‘cutting edge’ to have good penetration in attack.