This article was written by Chris Rue, Rush Soccer’s Futsal Manager.
“The ball must stick when we find you.” – An accurate phrase often shouted to an aspiring forward. How many times in a match is a vertical penetrating pass to the striker incorrectly handled, leading to a transitional moment to defense? When the vertical pass is played, visual cues are given for teammates to make penetrating runs accordingly. Then, possession is lost and defensive transition sprints occur.
This leads to a lack of confidence in the striker’s abilities and ultimately the lack of desire to make those necessary penetrating support runs. On the other hand, when the ball sticks to the forward, territorial advantage is gained, attacking possibilities emerge, penetrating runs are rewarded, and chances can be created.
There are countless times on a futsal court where we see the requirements of receiving a ball, under pressure, with back to goal; but no such position does it occur as often than with the pivot (pronounced Pee Vo). The role of the pivot is demanding. This position is the most advanced player in the diamond formation. The main role, in attack, is to provide forward passing angles for teammates. Upon receiving the penetrating pass, the pivot must control the ball, anticipate a first-time pass to an off the ball runner, hold possession for a delayed runner or use their own craft and guile to turn and shoot. The pivot’s ability to make the ball stick enhances a team’s chances to score in futsal.
The physical requirements needed in this position cannot be emphasized enough, however, cleverness is the important trait. Receiving a pass with a defender draped on your back is a difficult task. Anticipating space and finding angles for the entry pass is the first obstacle. Keeping yourself between the ball and defender is the next. Now, proper technique must be applied on the first touch to secure possession. These are all difficult skills to master; but the ability to read the cues, apply the best technique and make the correct decision, all in a fraction of a moment, separates good and great players.
Working relentlessly with players in the pivot position, during futsal training, will pay dividends in your team’s chances to score. Regardless of position played, the skill sets required of the pivot should be understood and trained by all. At the highest levels of the game, being comfortable receiving the ball with a defender on your back is a box that must be ticked.