In the sport of Australian rules football, the half-back line refers to the positions of the 3 players on the field that occupy the centre half-back and left and right half-back flank positions.
The role of the centre half-back is similar to that of a defensive midfielder in association football. As the first line of defence, the centre half-back must aim to break down opposition attacks before they can get into a scoring position.[1] Given that a centre half-back's opponent is usually the centre half-forward, the role is regarded as a key position in the team, and is usually reserved for tall and well-built players.
As one of the team's leaders, centre half-backs must be able to read the play and have good communication skills.[2] Although their first responsibility is to defend,[2] the great centre half-backs have proven to be equally creative in attack as well as reliable in defence.
Notable centre half-backs from over the years include:
The half-back flank was traditionally a defensive position, where reliability and toughness were more important than attacking flair.[1] In the modern game, reliability and toughness must now be combined with the ability to run and carry the ball as well as take on the opposition in a counter-attacking style.[5]
Notable half-back flankers over the years in Australian football include:
