hold something up

Related to word: hold

Phrasal Verb

Definition (sports)

  1. When a forward maintains possession of the ball, they control a long pass from a teammate until others can advance into the opposing team's half.

    • During the game, the forward tries to hold the ball up so that the midfielders can advance.

    • His dribbling skills allow him to hold the ball up against the opposing defense.

    • When a player holds the ball up, the other teammates must quickly catch up to avoid losing the opportunity.