Football/Soccer Session (Academy Sessions): Wave Defence - Cycle 3 - Session 1

1v1 and recovery defending (20 mins)

Organisation:

Set up an area just under half the size of your usual pitch • Split this area into two channels (stations) and place a goal at the end of each one • Place cones and flat markers as shown in the graphic above • Get your players into pairs and ensure there’s at least one pair at each station (we have 16 players, but you can adapt to suit your numbers) •

Objective:

Players will develop their understanding of: • how to approach attackers to delay, deny and dictate their direction of travel • when and how to decelerate • when to challenge for the ball.

Rotation Practice:

Each station hosts a different 1v1 defending activity • In their pairs, players have three minutes to take turns at each station with a 2 min rest period to change over and for any coach intervention • Ensure everyone has the chance to attack and defend • Players keep their own score to create leadership and responsibility.  

Blocks:

4 x 3 minute blocks with 2 minute rest = Total time of 18 minutes (Each section is done twice to see progression)

Station 1:

The attacker starts with the ball and runs through a gate before travelling towards goal. The defender starts on a flat marker and tries to catch with the attacker and prevent a goal to earn a point.

Station 2:

Both players start back-to-back at the flat marker. The attacker has the ball and runs to the end line, then turns and progresses to the box (marked out by cones). Meanwhile, the defender runs in the opposite direction, to the end line, then turns and presses the attacker. The defender must win the ball back inside the box to get a point.

If keepers are available then please use them.

Small Sided Games (15 mins)

Normal small sided games

However points are earned by scoring a goal or coach giving a goal for good use of defensive principles either individual or unit.

Example:

Player uses correct angle of approach and gets nearest arm, leg or hip across player to win the ball - give a goal

Nearest player presses and support players hold a good position and win the ball from the next pass - give a goal