Written by Tanya Oxtoby
1v1 Warm Up
The coach is looking for players to recognise where the ball is and where they are when they get the ball in relation to the goal and the opposite player. In possession players must try to keep the ball and advance play. Out of possession press play.
Coaching Objectives
ATTACKING
- Dribble using the leg furthest away from the defender and try to use the outside of the foot
- Try to take the defender into areas that are more attacking to take the initiative
- Use feints and skills to create space and give time on the ball
- Finish on goal as soon as possible
- Movement is key to keeping the defender at bay
DEFENDING
- Position the body sideways so reaction speed is faster
- Be on balls of feet so reaction also quicker
- Use defensive feints to trouble the attacker and cause mistakes
- When attacker is close eyes on ball not on player
- Don't jump in and make it easier for the attacker
- If beaten by the attacker's skill sprint to the goal to defend it
Drill Setup
- 15 Mins
- 4 - 6 Players
- 2 Target Goals
- Up to 3 Bibs
- 20 x15 y
What the Players Do
With 6 players create two teams of 3 players but split the number you have accordingly. Set up with two coaches one on each side of the area who control play. In the first part the first coach…2v2 Attacking and Defending Games
The drill has been structured to allow players multiple opportunity to develop their attacking and defending skills in small sided activity.
Coaching Objectives
This activity will work on players ability to apply attacking and defending 2v2 principles. These will be different depending on each coaches’ preferences within their coaching philosophy, and the intervals between balls entering the field of play allow ample opportunity to provide one to one player feedback.
Drill Setup
- 15 Mins
- Up to 16 Players
- 2 small Goals
- 8 Bibs
- 40 x 30 y
What the Players Do
Work in blocks of either specific timings or number of actions (number of 2 v 2 opportunities per player) depending on the number of players (work to rest ratio). Players are split into two teams,…Switching Play Away From Pressure
This drill allows players to identify and move the ball away from pressure, rewarding them for keeping possession.
Coaching Objectives
This activity will reward players if they can maintain possession under pressure by increasing the space in which they have to play within.
Drill Setup
- 20 mins, 4 x 4 min blocks Mins
- 10 Players
- 5 yellow 5 blue Bibs
- 40 x 40 y
Technique Tips
- Passing:
- Focus on quick, accurate passes to maintain possession.
- Use the inside of the foot for precision.
- Receiving:
- Open body position to see the field and anticipate pressure.
- Take a directional first touch toward open space.
- Scanning:
- Regularly scan the field for defender positions and passing options.
- Communication:
- Encourage verbal and non-verbal cues among teammates to maintain fluidity.
What the Players Do
The team in possession will start on one quarter of the overall pitch. The defending team will start the practice within a square located in the middle of the overall area. The coach will play the…Continue Reading For Free
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