How to press in FIFA 09 soccer for XBOX 360

Brought to you by Sweetpatch TV this FIFA 09 Soccer Players' Guide covers pressing. A press is a very aggressive attempt at getting the ball back ASAP. Usually done in very close proximity, it involves your players using every tool at their disposal to dispossess the opponent. Your player will only perform a standing tackle with the press, not a sliding tackle. The goal is to restrict the opponent from any further threat to your half of the field and try to regain possession for your team.

Because it is so aggressive, failure can result in your player getting beaten if you make a mistake or are up against a stronger jostling player. FIFA 09 is very specific in using the player's strength and balance ratings to determine who would comes out on the winning end of the battle. If you commit to a hard challenge and come away without the ball, the opposing team suddenly has the advantage in the attack. Because of this it is best that the hard press is performed with your midfield if at all possible so the next layer (the defenders) can be used as a back up. Remember to use layers of players when defending. If the opponent gets by one of your guys, quickly survey the next closest man and start again.