P123 PHASE

P2 · Attack the short ball

P2 is the attack phase of P123 point building: a short ball has arrived, so step in and attack with placement, not a forced winner.

Decision: A short ball arrives. Where do you attack?

You are inside the baseline. The defender is still deep.

• Approach into open space — GOOD READ: Depth and placement move the opponent and let you continue toward the net. Depth and placement move the opponent and let you continue toward the net. Expect a passing attempt, not an automatic winner.
• Drop shot — FAIR OPTION: The opponent starts deep, making touch plausible. The opponent starts deep, making touch plausible. It is less forgiving if the bounce sits up or the defender reads it early.
• Flat toward right line — TOUGH CHOICE: This flat drive aims near the right sideline. This flat drive aims near the right sideline. Its low path and narrow target make execution demanding.

Part of the P123 point-building pattern. The full P123 route is lesson 002: P1 → P2 → P3: Build, attack, finish.