The aim is to create a barrier for your ball-carrying teammate. When players are moving at full speed, you don’t need to take out the opponent to create space for your teammate, just make their pursuit difficult.
If you’re near the ball but not in position to receive it from a teammate, you almost automatically become a shepherding player.
The video evidence:
Shepherding impresses coaches, teammates, and knowledgeable fans because it’s a team-oriented action. You’re literally making yourself a shield for the ball-carrier. It’s these “one-percenter” actions that often go unnoticed but win the match.
Baton Rouge Tigers Australian Rules Football Club 