Plays Along the boards

[Speedz98 15]

Last night I was at sticktime, and it was really crowded but eventually we got a half ice, or take it to the blue line and out, 4v4 game going with one or two substitutions for each team.

So the ages were really diverse, but as usual I ended up on the team with the guys that weren't that good..

We were playing some kids who were Highschool aged and they had an adult on their team and they were really competative. I was definately pushing my self to play on their level, the problem was, I had no back up.

I found myself having to carrying it in to the zone and set people up because i knew they'd never get it to me. when I did this though, all four guys on the other team were all over me and I would get pressured on the boards.

Frequently I'd end up losing the puck from poke checks into my skates, and I was totally lost on strategy. What should I do in this situation?

What should I do if my team doesnt read my play well enough?

btw I was communicating a lot, but was the only one.

[lampliter87 8]

It's critical on zone entry in any league or level to protect the puck. Use your body to shield from opponents. Try to use Gretzky curls or circle around the net and try to find someone open coming through the slot. Whatever you do, don't stop moving and don't expose the puck.

[Chadd 916]

You can't attack one on four. You need to enter the zone with options or smart defenders will just take the puck away from you all game long. Move the puck to another guy before you run out of time and space, then head to the net or another open area.

[Speedz98 15]

Thanks guys these are really good tips.

What should do like, let's say I move the puck quickly get open, once I get the puck. Sometimes I feel like they are instantly on me and my options close. I don't like always throwing it right at the net cause it's pretty easy for any one who knows decent Defense to clear that ish right out of there. I always like to give the puck to the point but I don't want it to be my only option.

[Chadd 916]

Thanks guys these are really good tips.

What should do like, let's say I move the puck quickly get open, once I get the puck. Sometimes I feel like they are instantly on me and my options close. I don't like always throwing it right at the net cause it's pretty easy for any one who knows decent Defense to clear that ish right out of there. I always like to give the puck to the point but I don't want it to be my only option.

The guys that play with me know my bail out play when I'm tied up along the boards is to dump it behind the net. If I know where my guys are, I try and get it to them, but that isn't always possible.

[HattrickSwayze 3]

The guys that play with me know my bail out play when I'm tied up along the boards is to dump it behind the net. If I know where my guys are, I try and get it to them, but that isn't always possible.

If you're playing in a league, this is a good thing to do with your linemates. If I get tied up along the boards, I know where my linemates are going to be and where I can dump it. One's either going to be behind the net, or in front of the net. If you're not being pressured, setting up along the boards is one of my favorite spots to be at because you have so many options. You've got behind the net, in front of the net, slot, both points if the wingers are deep, and as a failsafe you can throw it on net for a rebound. When you're coming in to the zone with pressure, I like to curl around and look for a pass. Normally I'll either have a trailer, or I can hit the D following the play in to the zone. Worst case scenario, throw it on net low for a rebound or eat it if you have to.