re: Trying to learn a little bit about soccer

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The offsides rule is important. If not, it would be an annoying spread out game

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This is big. Good runs are what make the game great. My advice to you to help understand and possibly enjoy it more is to watch matches where you watch everyone instead of just the man on the ball. You'll start noticing certain things.

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it seems like if the offensive player got too close to the defenders, all they would have to do is run up the field and boom, an offsides penalty.

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It's called an Offside Trap, except that the entire back line has to move up at the right time. Very basic in concept, but it isn't by any means easy.