The Handler/Reset poach is a defense maneuver in which the defender is playing off of the reset position in order to guard the open space from cutters (or to more easily predict the movements of the reset).
Another common type of reset poach is when the defender guards the backfield exclusively, in an attempt to prevent the reset.
First, lets see the upfield poach. From here, we can see what spaces are open: the backfield and the upline on the open side.
Both are viable positions, however the backfield should be the primary look. It is easier and safer to simply reset the disc, because most handler poaches are caused by the personal defensive strategy of the defender, and are not by team design. By resetting the disc, the defender will return to their marking position and the offense can continue as normal.
The backfield poach, on the other hand, is designed to entirely prevent the easy reset. Here, the open spaces are the upline open field and the break side.
Even though both of those moves are available, they do not take full advantage of the opportunity presented. One of the most dangerous options in Ultimate is the prospect of a Handler DEEP CUT!!!! These moves can be very successful, and have almost no negative impacts.
We start with an in cut from the back of the stack. As they set up their defender, the poached handler begins his or her deep cut.
The resulting in cut receives the disc and immediately looks upfield for the continuing deep cut from the handler.
'nuf said.
If necessary or available, the in cut can be used a simple decoy and the throw can go straight to the deep cut from the initial position. NOTE: the reset position is now vacant, so if the upfield options are not open, the front of stack should drop into its place in order to offer a reset.