Positions 2 and 3 on the soccer field are the right and left full-backs, respectively, or, in some defensive schemes, the right and left wingbacks. These two positions share some key elements, with only a few distinctions separating them, leading to some soccer fans using the terms interchangeably. 

These players serve primarily as defenders, controlling the portion of their side of the field along the touchline to thwart attackers and support their own attack by moving the ball forward before dropping back into their defensive positions. 

While they may not get the same specialized soccer apparel as the goalie they protect, they are defensive powerhouses the team depends on for success.

It’s All About Positioning

Traditionally, full-backs–who get their name from being the backmost or fully-back of the defenders–would line up in front of the corners of the goal area, just outside the six-yard box. Modern full-backs move over toward the touchline to make room for the center-backs, and full-backs playing as wingbacks move forward half the distance to the centerline and often closer to the touchline to support more aggressive offensive plays. 

These positions mean that much of the game will be outside the purview of true full-backs, but when their opposing wingers attack, they better have their soccer shoes laced up and ready to go, because the action turns fast and furious.   

Holding the (Touch) Line

The full-backs are the last line of defense along the touchline before an attacker reaches the goalie. While the center-backs share this responsibility for the center of the field, full-backs also need to understand the oblique angles a winger running the touchline may use to attack the goal and move to cut them off or guide them back to the center of the field where other defenders wait to help recapture possession. 

Their goal is to keep the action in front of them and be cognizant of their goalie’s positioning and whether they’re in the goal area and allowed to catch the ball or, for a keeper sweeper, if it will need to be delivered as a pass for the goalie to send forward to another player. 

Defending as a full-back requires lightning-quick decision-making ability, speed, and a sound understanding of soccer strategy.

On the Attack

Full-backs support the attack by feeding the ball forward and tracking the opposing wingers through the play. While a true full-back will often fall back to their defensive position after crossing the ball, a wingback may move forward further, participating in an attack set but staying alert for a change in possession to disrupt the opponent’s cross and make it more difficult for them to score.  

This doesn’t mean a true full-back is out of action in scoring situations. The constant movement in soccer means they always need to be ready to intercept the ball, communicate with teammates while they get back in position, and send it forward for their team’s attack.

Training for Success

To get game ready, you have to train with official football equipment that conforms to league standards. 

True full-backs should focus on exercises that enhance both their quickness on their feet and their ability to burst when required to cut off or outrun attackers. 

Wing-backs see more movement throughout the game, requiring more training in endurance. Both positions will benefit from coaching that emphasizes “football smarts” and the ability to read and react to a fast-changing soccer game efficiently and effectively.

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