The phrase "to hold the players" means to captivate or keep the attention of the people participating in a game, activity, or event. It means making sure they stay engaged and interested in what's happening. Full definition
The rationale explanation is that our manager is not accountable and he doesn't hold his players accountable either. (justarsenal.com)
It's redeemed only by enjoyable third - person shooter action, which comes alive in co-op multiplayer when there's no story holding players back. (metacritic.com)
It all depends on what the team shape and play style will be as to what kind of holding player we need. (justarsenal.com)