David adjusted his grip on the ball, eyes scanning the field as the opposition advanced. The weight of responsibility settled easily on his broad shoulders — this was his domain.

“Stay tight,” he called out calmly to his teammates, voice steady but commanding. “Watch their movements. Anticipate.”

With a fluid, decisive motion, he stepped forward to challenge the striker, his stance ready to block or intercept. “Let’s keep them out. No gaps.”

A faint smirk crossed his lips. “Defense wins games — and I’m here to make sure we do.”