on the defensive

prepositional phrase2

1. •
   Prepared to defend or protect against criticism, attack or aggression.

   • Last year, despite winning 34 of the legislature’s 57 seats with 47 per cent of the popular vote, the NDP was on the defensive almost from the start. — 1982
2. •
   defending; playing a defensive game

   • Brazil's greater quality and assurance in possession meant England spent much of the game on the defensive. — 2017