Stephen Cluxton's kickouts have long been lauded as the platform for many of Dublin's attacks. Opposing teams frequently try counteracting them using a number of different practices. This week we have analysed the Dublin kickouts in the 2013 Quarter and Semi final clashes against Cork and Kerry respectively. Both Cork and Kerry used a combination of tactics to counter the Dublin kickouts:

 

• Push up on the Dublin defence leaving no defenders free for a short kickout option.

• Block the path to the centre half back.

• Disrupt and slow down the kickout. Cluxton has struggled when under pressure..

• Force Cluxton to kick long and attack the fielder at pace from behind.

• Lure Cluxton into kicking ball into open space. Once kicked opposing midfielders/half forwards then attack this open space.

 

In the clip below we explore a number of Dublin kickouts where possession has been given away to the opposing team: