Winning After Losing: How to Turn a Lost Face-off into a Goal

By Enio Sacilotto,

Face-offs can determine the outcome of games, whether you win or lose the draw. This clip highlights a great example of creating offence after losing a draw in the offensive zone, combined with effective forechecking that leads to Colorado’s goal.

Coaches, it’s essential to have a plan for lost draws in all zones. While we often think about creating offence by winning draws—which makes sense—it’s surprising how much offence can be generated even when you lose a draw. In this instance, the centers come straight back to support the defensemen as they pinch, which allows Colorado to maintain possession of the puck.

The puck is then strategically placed deep in the zone, enabling the first forechecker (F1) to apply pressure. The second forward (F2) cuts off the wall using an effective technique—keeping his stick blade square and flat against the boards to intercept the rim play. He then moves the puck back deep into the zone. The original forechecker (F1) works to get above (reloads then reattacks, getting stick-on-puck and body-on-body. His emphasis on stick-on-puck play allows him to pass the puck to the second forward (F2), resulting in a goal.

The lesson for players is clear: while hitting can be an effective technique, if you want to maintain puck possession, your priority should be getting stick on the puck. Focus on securing the puck first, then engage with body-on-body contact.

Here are two simple team concepts: 1) have a clear plan for all lost draws, and 2) position pucks effectively to execute a pressure forecheck. Additionally, remember these two individual defensive details: 1) keep a square, flat blade against the boards to stop rim plays, and 2) focus on stick-on-puck and body-on-body contact to achieve success, as demonstrated leading up to this goal.

Come and learn some of these techniques this summer at International Hockey Camps.  We have specialized themes for: 1) Defensemen, 2) Creating Offense, 3) Passing and Shooting, 4) Small Area Games & Battle, 5) Dynamic Skating and Puck Skills and 6) Prep Camp.  Small classes with professional coaching, https://www.coachenio.com/hockey-camps/.

Enio Sacilotto is the President of International Hockey Camps and runs the Mental Edge High-Performance Training. Enio has 44 years of coaching experience (professional hockey in Europe and the Victoria Royals (WHL)). Currently, he coaches at the Burnaby Winter Club Hockey Academy, is the coach of the Serbian U18 men’s National hockey team, and is the Head Coach with the Burnaby Steelers. If you have questions or are interested in his services, contact Enio at enio@coachenio.com or call 604-255-4747. Website: www.coachenio.com.