Football/Soccer Session (Academy Sessions): B License - Defending in a Mid Block - Compactness, Control/Restraint

Rondo (15 mins)

Organisation:

• 6x10 yard grid
• 4v2 directional
• Red look to play from one side to the other
• Blue win ball and RWTB over end line in half ball is won
• 90 second rounds

Coaching Points:

1) Starting Positions

2) As you step out, scan over shoulder

3) Make play predictable by cutting off one option.

4) Second defender to coach teammate in front.

Game Training (20 mins)

Organisation:

• Two Teams 11 v 11, blues attempt to win possession setting up in mid block. Reds must try and build up and get a player in possession with control of the ball in the attacking third.

Coaching Points

1) Defensive Starting Positions - Block the central passing Line & Stop Wide Players Progressing Ball Forward.

9/s- screen midfield 4. line of confrontation at top of center circle. If one presses, other 9 covers.

- ALWAYS protect central area = PROTECT CENTRAL - FORCE WIDE

2) Press from In to Out

- If 1 9 presses other 9 covers to block pass into 6, (look over shoulder).

- Ball side 7/11 & FB you must be able to always see your direct opponent FB.

3) Who decides when we press?

- what is our trigger?

- If 9 goes we all go

4) Understand your role

- first 9 (first defender = press, isolate dispossess)

- second 9 and midfield (second defenders = Anticipate, Isolate

- Non ballside 7/11 and FB = Isolate & leave non ball-side F/B&7/11 and come inside to make central area compact

- Ball side 8 step in front of opponent & anticipate next pass.

- CB if opponent 9 (drops to receive) or 10 receives facing own goal we step out and press.