Football/Soccer Session (Academy Sessions): FAW/UEFA B Licence OA1 Session Plan

Defending the Final Third

Topic

Defending the final third.

Organisation

- Area size: Half pitch.

- Timings: 2x4 min working blocks. 90 terminal coaching between working blocks.

- Out of possession team in 1-4-2-3-1 shape with front 4 removed.

- In possession team in 1-4-3-3 shape with back 4 and GK removed.

- Mini goals in place of 7 and 11 from out of possession teams 1-4-2-3-1 shape.

- Balls to start with supporting coach (S) for restarts.

Practice

After ball is played in from supporting coach, the in possession team (blue) will look to attack and score against out of possession (red) team. If/when the in possession team score the ball will restart with the supporting coach. If/when the out of possession team win the ball back they will look to move the ball forward and score in the two mini goals. If/when the ball goes out of play the ball will restart with the supporting coach. 

Defending the Final Third Principles

- Protect the middle 

- Force wide 

- Minimise box entries 

- Stop crosses

- Defend the box

Problems/Solutions

- Problem 1: In possession 10s drag the out of possession 6s wide leaving pass into striker/central area exposed.

- Solution 1: 6s work as a pair and pivot between protecting the central area and putting pressure on the ball.

- Problem 2: Fast switch of play leaves 3v2 attacking overload in wide area when 6 protects the central area.

- Solution 2: Refer to defending the final third principles. Back 4 must shift across pitch in shape with speed. Near side 6 has to be ready to  jump and put pressure on the ball.