2-3-1 side pop
The 2-3-1 side pop is an offensive set that starts in a 2-3-1 formation and uses movement from the crease area to create space and another passing option.
The concept uses the players' positioning and movement to change the defensive matchup and open up opportunities around the middle of the offense.
Starting in a 2-3-1
The offense begins in a 2-3-1 formation.
Two players are positioned higher in the formation, three players occupy the middle area, and one player starts near the crease.
This gives the offense spacing across the field while keeping a player at the crease.
The ball can be moved around the formation as the players begin their movements.
The Side Pop
The defining action is the side pop.
The player starting near the crease moves out toward the side, creating separation from the crease area.
This movement changes the spacing of the offense and gives the ball carrier another option.
The pop can also force the defender responsible for the crease player to make a decision about whether to follow the movement or stay closer to the crease.
Use the Movement to Create Space
The purpose of the side pop is to make the defense adjust.
As the crease player moves away from the middle, space can open up around the crease and adjacent areas.
At the same time, the other offensive players continue moving and maintaining their spacing.
The offense can then look for the open player based on how the defense reacts.
Move the Ball With the Action
The ball movement is important to the concept.
As players move through the 2-3-1 structure, the ball can be passed to the open player rather than forcing the original option.
The side pop gives the offense another passing option and changes the defensive assignments as the play develops.
Reading the Defense
The offense should react to the defense rather than treating the play as a predetermined sequence.
If the defender follows the player making the side pop, that movement can create space elsewhere.
If the defender stays inside, the player making the pop can become an available passing option.
The next pass should be based on the defensive reaction.
Coaching Points
1. Start with good spacing.
The 2-3-1 formation needs enough separation between players to create usable passing lanes.
2. Time the side pop.
The movement should happen as part of the offensive action rather than becoming an isolated movement.
3. Keep the ball moving.
Use the passing options created by the movement instead of holding the ball and allowing the defense to reset.
4. Read the defender.
The best option depends on how the defense responds to the side pop.
5. Maintain offensive spacing.
The other players should continue to provide passing options as the play develops.
Why Use the 2-3-1 Side Pop?
The 2-3-1 side pop gives an offense a simple way to create movement from a familiar formation.
The side pop moves a player away from the crease, changes the defensive spacing, and creates another passing option.
Rather than relying on a single predetermined outcome, the offense can use the movement to create a defensive reaction and then attack the space that becomes available.
Start with the 2-3-1. Create movement with the side pop. Then read the defense.
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