3-3-4 System

Explanation: When explaining a formation in hockey the first number represents the number of attacks, the second is the midfielder's, the third is the defense, and sometimes a fourth number is used if the system involves a sweeper.

The 3-3-4 system is good to use with a team of young and inexperienced players because this system spreads players over the pitch giving a team balance in both defensive and attacking situations. However this system can make a team stiff and lacking in new ideas, but they should be well organised.

Description: The three forward players have the same sort of role as the forwards in the 3-3-3-1 formation. However they may be a little more restricted depending on their abilities. It is important for the wing forwards to be quick, and accurate passers to set up goal scoring opportunities, and it is vital that the inside center forward knows the way to goal, and has confidence in their own scoring abilities.

The central midfield player is important in this system as they must be able to pass the ball well to set up attacks and tackle well to help out the defense. Being able to finish well would be an advantage for this player as they are allowed to break beyond the forward line. The wide midfielder's have the same job as in the 3-3-3-1 formation.

The defensive line of four players will mark the opposing teams forwards, which should leave one player free to pick up an advancing midfielder should there happen to be one. In this system defenders will normally stay in their starting positions and pick up the player that takes up a position in their area, rather than man-to-man mark a specific player. The backs on the left and right side should also offer themselves as another attacking option by making over-lapping runs appropriately.

Learn More About:

Hockey Coaching

Other Related Areas:

3-3-3-1

3-3-4

2-4-4

2-5-3