Football/Soccer Session (Moderate): Striking the Ball for Defensive Clearances

Warm Up (10 mins)

16-Players set up as above, 10-yds apart.; 1-ball per group.

i) Player A passes to Player B and follows pass.

ii) Player B receives the ball, turns & passes to Player C following his pass.

iii) Player C receives the ball and repeats the process.

Coaching Points

1) First Touch: Does the players 1st touch present the ball nicely to be able to strike the ball with their 2nd touch?

2) Ball Striking Technique: Does the player address the ball facing their target? Do they raise their ball striking foot off the floor 3-4 inches and lock their ankle? Do they bend their knee and step into the ball? Do they strike the ball with power, allowing their foot to follow through before landing?

3) Continued Movement: Does the player continue following the ball forward at speed, simulating 'stepping up'?

Activity Two (20 mins)

60yd x 45yd x 35yd area; play 8 v 8 with GK's and the field marked into 1/3's.

i) Coach plays a ball to white defender to 'clear the ball' forward. IF the ball leaves the defensive 1/3, play until there is a shot/goal OR the ball goes out of bounds. FYI: Midfielders can attack into the final 1/3.

ii) REPEAT above to the navy defenders.

iii) Once the players understand the game and been through a couple of rounds, bring in points/scoring. 1-pt IF the ball clears the defensive area; 3pts IF the ball reaches the attacking 1/3 and 5pts for a goal from a defensive clearance.

Adv,

Allow ploayers to move freely and restart the game in various situations. IE, throw in, free kick, corner or just play in a ball.

Coaching Points

1) Game Like Conditions: Can defenders 'clear the ball' in game like conditions?

2) Decision Making Speed: IF a clearance isn't on (IE, under immediate pressure) do players reaqct to pass to a defender who is open to clear the ball? Does that open defender offer depth in support to help clear the ball 1st time?

3) Technique: Do they choose the correct technique for clearing the ball whether a fiorm, instep pass to a nmidfielder OR a long clearance to the forwards?