coiled

adjective2

1. •
   In the form of coils; having coils.
2. •
   Prepared and poised to act, like a snake that has coiled its lower body so it can strike.

   • Two first-half goals from the Colombian forward Radamel Falcao won the game, allowing Atlético to spend the final hour or so sitting deep, coiled always for a breakaway. — 2012