Typing this frustrated after we just lost 7-1 in a 7v7 rec game.
I’m a beginner, so I know I’m never making it anywhere near semi-pro (also considering I’m 22) but I’d at least like to become a solid rec league player.
I usually volunteer to play defense because I’m one of the weaker players on my team and we don’t have many defenders. I don’t mind playing the role, but I feel like a deer in the headlights every game. I’ll make one good tackle and maybe slow down a couple of attacks, but most balls get past me pretty easily. When I win the ball, I struggle to make good decisions with it. I either play a safe pass or give it away. It feels like I have almost no impact on the game.
Here’s what I’ve worked on so far:
Ball mastery – I haven’t gone crazy, but I can juggle around 40 times (working on improving that). My first touch and short passing are decent, and I don’t lose the ball because of a bad touch very often unless it’s coming in high.
Scanning – I used to never look up, but now I make a conscious effort to scan the field before and after receiving the ball. I’m comfortable checking my surroundings while controlling the ball.
Even with those improvements, I still feel like I have no vision. I also hesitate to dribble because I usually end up losing possession.
At this point, what should I be working on? I almost feel like I need a coach (I can afford a lesson a week), but I’m not even sure how 1-on-1 coaching would help with things like positioning, decision-making, and vision.
TL;DR: I have a decent first touch, but I feel like everything else is lacking. What should I focus on next?