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Attacking the area closest to where the cross is coming from, often flicking the ball on or getting a touch ahead of the defender. Near post runs stretch the defense because they have to cover both the near post and the back post. Quick, decisive runs to the near post create chances even from poor crosses because you're attacking the ball ahead of your marker.
Ruud van Nistelrooy was a master of the near post run. He'd dart in front of his marker, meet crosses early, and flick them past the keeper. Defenders knew it was coming but couldn't stop it.
Robbie
Feb 5, 2026
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