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The
5-4-1 adds to a 4 men flatback a sweeper, which
indicates that this lineup is highly defensive.
It is used as a starting lineup for teams that
are playing a team with a faster midfield than
one's own. As in the 4-5-1, the forward (F1)
will have to run tremendously, so that a
substitution will be necessary.
Sweeper(SW)
The sweeper should be supporting the midfield,
since the defense ought to be able to stop or
slow down an attack without the sweeper.
Stopper (ST) The stopper is
responsible for marking the centerforward or
centermidfielder of the other team. He also has
an important offensive part of distributing the
ball to the midfielders.
Left/Right Backs (LB/RB) In the
flatback formation, they mark the opponent's
forwards and are the only real defenders. These
players have to be dependable and willing to
give up any kind of offensive play.
Left/Right Defenders (LD/RD)
Cover the outsides of the field. If successful,
opponents' offensive game is shut down severely.
Since the entire 5-4-1 concentrates on defense,
these players should not be expected to support
the offense.
Left/Right Midfielders(LM/RM)
When playing 5-4-1, outside midfielders need to
take charge and demand the ball more than usual.
With only one forward, offensive plays have to
be played over the outsides, since a 5 men
midfield can hardly push up fast enough to
support the single forward.
Centermidfielders (LC/CM/RC) Fast
centermidfielders with a good ball control are
essential for counterattacks, usually the only
way to score with the 5-4-1 (assuming that the
opponent is considered somewhat superior). It is
also necessary for the midfielders to hold their
positions and not to fall back too much, because
that would crowd the space in front of the own
goal to such an extent that getting rid of the
ball becomes possible only by clearing the ball:
a certain way of losing possession.
Forward (F1) The single forward
will have to cope with a game with few chances
to score, for this formation is usually used to
hold the ball and win time where offense is
ranked only second. The forward will also have
to fight for every ball in the offense and do a
tremendous amount of running. A substitute
should be brought into the game should the 4-5-1
be performed over a longer periond of time. |
