game-saving defense
noun phraseUK /ɡeɪm ˈseɪvɪŋ dɪˈfɛns/
US /ɡeɪm ˈseɪvɪŋ dɪˈfɛns/
A game-saving defense is a really good stop that keeps your team from losing.
The goalie made a game-saving defense in the last minute.
RELATED WORDS
OTHER MEANINGS
2. A defensive play that protects a lead and wins the game.
Her game-saving defense at shortstop ended the rally.
3. A last-ditch effort to stop the other team from scoring.
The defender's game-saving defense cleared the ball off the line.
4. Any crucial defensive move that decides the outcome.
That game-saving defense in overtime won them the championship.