The Easiest Method to Defend and Counterattack
Escape the back and take the net.
Here’s the simplest, most practical way to do it.
1. What It Is
This method is a structured way to:
Defend under pressure
Recognize when you can attack
Turn defense into counterattack
Take the net with control
It’s based on one golden rule:
Ball below net level = you are defending
Ball above net level = you can attack
Your job at the back is simple:
Survive → Improve the ball → Create an easy ball → Lob or Chiquita → Take the net
Not random. Not rushed. Structured.
2. When to Use It
Use this method:
When you’re stuck at the back
When opponents control the net
After defending strong volleys or smashes
In long rallies
Whenever the ball stays low
If you don’t have a plan from the back, you’ll stay there all match.
3. Who Should Use It?
Beginners
Focus mainly on getting the ball back in.
Play more lobs than you think.
You’ll get many chances because opponents miss.
Intermediate Players
Start using fast groundstrokes to create weaker volleys.
Add structured lobs.
Begin learning the chiquita.
Advanced Players
Use the full system:
Defensive control
Tactical pressure shots
Intentional lobs
Chiquita counterattacks
Mix options to keep opponents guessing.
Everyone needs structure. The level just changes how many layers you use.
4. Step-by-Step Execution
Think of this as a simple pyramid.
You only move up when the ball allows it.
Step 1: Survive (Hard Ball)
When the ball is:
Fast
Heavy with spin
Tight to the glass
Forcing you to run late
Your only goal:
Short preparation
Contact in front
Play low with margin
Get it back in
No hero shots.
Just survive.
Step 2: Apply Pressure (Medium Ball)
When the ball is still challenging but manageable:
You have time.
You are balanced.
Now you can:
Play a faster groundstroke
Aim at the opponent’s chest
Or to their backhand volley
Why?
Most players will just block.
And that blocked volley often becomes your easier ball.
Important:
This requires solid technique. Without good technique, your tactical options are limited.
Step 3: Escape (Easy Ball)
Now you receive a comfortable ball.
This is where most players make mistakes.
You have two main options:
Option 1: The Lob (Easier and Safer)
This should be your main weapon.
Rough guideline:
70% lobs
30% chiquitas
How to do it properly:
Play it deep.
Get it behind the service line.
Aim at the player with weaker overheads.
Move forward with your partner.
If the lob is good → take the net.
If the lob is short → stay back and restart the process.
Do not force it.
Option 2: The Chiquita (More Aggressive)
Use this when:
Opponents are tight at the net.
There’s space at their feet.
You are confident technically.
Execution:
Play low and soft at their feet.
Immediately move forward.
Your partner moves forward too.
If it’s good → you get a high volley to attack.
If it’s not good → stay back. Do NOT rush forward.
Critical Detail: Same Preparation
Your lob and chiquita must look identical in preparation.
If opponents know what’s coming, they adjust early.
Keep them guessing.
5. Common Mistakes
Hitting random shots with no structure
Trying to attack when ball is below net level
Lobbing high with no intention
Moving forward alone (partner stays back)
Forcing the chiquita on a bad ball
Mentally relaxing when you finally get an easy ball
Big one:
After working hard to create an easy ball, players panic and throw it away.
Stay disciplined.
6. Simple Key Reminders
Keep these in your head during matches:
Below net = defend.
Above net = attack.
First survive.
Then improve.
Then escape.
Lob is safer than chiquita.
If the attacking shot isn’t good, stay back.
Move with your partner.
Every shot from the back is another chance to lose the point.
Your mission is simple:
Get out of there, intelligently.
