From a defensive position.
By analogy with a cricket shot.
on the back foot
in a defensive posture; on the defensive; off balance; at a disadvanta…
back down
To take a less aggressive position in a conflict than one previously h…
on the front foot
In a dominant position.
back in the game
Having recovered from a disadvantageous position.
swing back
To return to a previous position.
take a back seat
To adopt a position of noninvolvement.