Playing offensive block
2 CommentsOne of the most effective offensive tactics in canoe polo is blocking the defenders away from your shooter. The attack is low risk, if the block fails, you can give a pass to a player in the back, it’s efficient, it only involves 2 or 3 out of 5 players, and it’s easy to learn.
Blocking inward
The easiest way to block defenders is to push them towards their goalkeeper.
Starting situations for blocks are always the same, see the picture on top.
Begin the offensive action by passing the ball to red player number 1 or number 2, this will draw the attention of the green player number 1.
The ultimate goal is to push the green player number 3 as close to the goalkeeper as possible. This is red player 4’s job. Red player 1 should pass the ball back to number 2 or 3.
When a successful block is in place, red player 5 can gain speed, receive the ball and take the shot.
If the defending team is any good, they’ll help their player by sending another defender (in the case, green number 4 can help). This can be countered by doing a double block:
Red player 3 joins in to block green player 4.
Blocking outward
A very big disadvantage to the inward block is the angle the shot will be taken. It’s always from the side, and a good goalkeeper can still block it by himself.
Start with the same positions as the upper image.
Now red players 3 and 4 will block the green players 3 and 4. Try to keep the side player (green 3) as far to the goal line as possible and the middle player (green 4) as much to the center as possible.
This creates an opening for red player number 5 to come in with speed, receive a pass and make a shot from the center.
The key to success is luring away the green player number 1. If he’s able to aid the defense, there is nothing you can do.