The 2-1-3 formation can create opportunities for the attack by using V cuts, picks, and quick ball movement around the perimeter. These two set plays use the midfielders to create picks at GLE and give the ball carrier options to shoot or feed.

Set 1

The ball starts with M3, who passes around to A1. The ball is then reversed back to A2.

As the ball is reversed, M1 makes a V cut and sets a pick for A2 at GLE.

A2 can then attack the opportunity created by the pick. Once the play develops, A2 has the option to shoot or pass to A3.

One important detail is the defensive matchup created by the pick. When M1 goes down to set the screen at GLE, M1 should be covered by a short-stick middie. The goal is to avoid having a pole switch onto A2.

This allows A2 to take advantage of the pick without immediately facing a long-stick matchup.

Set 2

The second set also starts from the 2-1-3 formation but uses two picks at GLE.

The ball starts with M2 and is passed around to A2. As A1 receives the ball, M3 and M1 V cut to set picks at GLE.

A1 then goes hard off the pick set by M3 and looks to shoot.

The play does not end with the first shooting opportunity. A1 has another option if the defense takes away the shot.

A1 can shoot or pass cross-crease to A2, who has just come off the pick set by M1.

This gives the ball carrier two immediate options: take the shot or find the player coming off the opposite pick.

Using the Picks

Both sets rely on the same basic idea: use player movement and picks to create an advantage around GLE.

The V cuts help create the movement needed for the midfielders to get into position and set the picks. Once the picks are established, the attack can look for the player coming off the pick and make the appropriate read.

In Set 1, the primary opportunity is for A2 to shoot or find A3.

In Set 2, A1 attacks off the first pick, with the option to shoot or hit A2 cross-crease after the second pick.

The two sets give the offense structured options while keeping the action centered around GLE and the crease.

Key Points

  • Start from the 2-1-3 formation.

  • Use V cuts to initiate the movement.

  • Set picks at GLE.

  • In Set 1, A2 can shoot or pass to A3.

  • In Set 2, A1 can shoot or pass cross-crease to A2.

  • Make sure the GLE screen in Set 1 is covered by a short-stick middie to prevent a pole from switching onto A2.