Football/Soccer Session (Difficult): Tactical - Defensive Transition

Activity (25 mins)

Organization

15x20 yard grid, split in half (2x15x10 yard grids)

Mini nets at both ends

Defender on same goal line as attackers

Defender at halfway of grid

Activity

Defender at half plays the ball into either attacker. As ball travels, Defender 1 closes down attacker in possession, creating a 2v1. Defender 2 must recover to halfway, then move to support defender 1 and create a 2v2. Defenders are looking to prevent attacking team from scoring on the mini goal at the far end of the grid. If the defending team wins the ball in their attacking half and scores, they are awarded 2 points. Win the ball in their own half and score = 1 point.

Coaching Points

• Defensive principles - specifically delay, cover and patience
• Speed of approach of on-ball defender - don't jump in!
• Angle of approach should be to deny the pass to the open attacker.
• On ball defender looking to delay progress of the attacking team long enough for partner to recover and support.
• Supporting defender must move quickly to recover and take away the numbers-up situation for the attackers.
• Supporting defender doesn't man mark 2nd attacker, marks space in behind partner so they can step up to defend if partner gets beat.