Why We Should Exploit Short-Stick Matchups at "X" or Close to the Goal.
- Truett Wilson Lax Lessons
- Oct 7
- 3 min read
Introduction:
In the offensive zone, one of the the most successful match-ups ELITE players and offenses look for are short-stick matchups below or near the goal and GLE. Causing a short-stick match-up or what the lacrosse world calls an "invert" is a form of manipulating the opposing defense's structure and responsibilities. This is due to the fact, we are causing a short-stick defender (SSDM) to below, when they are more accustomed to playing in the top-half of the defensive zone, near the perimeter of their defensive structure. This manipulation strategy is effective when a short-stick defender is forced to cover an elite offensive midfielder or elite offensive attackmen at "X" (behind the goal and GLE), this is because the short-stick defender is typically inexperienced and could be uncomfortable defending in that area. Moving a dodging midfielder or utilizing an attackmen will force the defense to rely on reaction. This can create ideal opportunities to exploit weaknesses of the opposing defense and create shooting or passing lanes that can lead to grade-A chances. In this article, we will take a deep dive into what dodging on an invert entails and how we can manipulate it into our offensive mentalities favor.
Purpose of the Invert:
Exploit Defensive Mismatches:
The key objective is to draw a short-stick defender into an unfamiliar position behind the goal. This is so they then have to defend dodges and feeds from a quicker midfielder or attackmen in an unknown area.
Create Space:
If you can draw a defender behind the goal, you can then stretch the defense out, giving your team more space for movement up front. This allows better looks of attack in grade-A areas without much defensive controlled crowding or chaos.
Execution of the Invert:
Ball Carrier Moves to X:
Having the ball carrier below at "X" while guarded by a short-stick defender is vital and a HUGE advantage. This is because as the ball carrier you are attacking TOWARDS the defender who is in an unknown area for themselves. This means you control the flow and movement of the 1v1 rep and by putting a defender in an unknown area, they may be primed to make more mistakes that will benefit you as the dodger.
Dodge or Feed from X:
Dodge:
Similar to what what just explained above, you are attacking AT a defender who is being forced to back peddle up-field, rather than down-field while also being in an unknown defensive zone area. This can create prime dodging opportunities.
Feed:
The ball carrier can dodge from "X", and create a sliding draw opportunity from an adjacent defensive slide. This can lead to a dump or back-side feeding/passing opportunity for the ball carrier to a teammate. Forcing a collapse of the defense and leading to a proper scoring chance.
Defense Responses:
Early Slide:
Defenders may slide early to stop the dodge from "X" - the defense's strategy is to prevent a shot, but the ball carrier should keep their head up because the early slide will open up passing lanes to their teammate(s).
Stay Home:
If the defense chooses not to slide or support, this gives the ball carrier more room and time to take the 1v1 invert match-up and attack towards the goal. Giving the ball carrier an opportunity to shoot and score. It's important to keep your head up as the ball carrier, so you can see and react to what the opposing defense is doing or not doing.
Advantages of the Invert:
Exploiting Weaknesses in Short-Stick Defenders:
Usually in the high school and youth levels, SSDM's are often less confident being able to defend at "X". This makes them slower to react or communicate with their defensive teammates. The ball carrier should recognize this and attack immediately before the opposing defense has time to shift, switch, or adjust.
Stretching the Defense:
By moving a SSDM at "X", the offense will force the defense to spread out. This opens passing lanes and shooting opportunities.
Key Players for this Strategy:
This strategy is best executed by agile, quick midfielders or attackers who can dodge effectively and create opportunities from behind the net. As a coach, you'd want your shiftier and quicker dodging type offensive players to initiate the movement, and either hope to get a successful dodge to goal, or draw an early slide that'll open up one of your stronger shooters hands and space to get a feed and shoot in a grade-A scoring area.
Why the Invert Works Well at Younger Levels:
Opens Up Space for the Offense:
By drawing defenders behind the goal, the offense opens up space in front of the net. This gives cutters and shooters more room to operate, leading to easier opportunities for high-percentage shots.
Check Out These Videos for a Visual Representation:
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