Football/Soccer Session (Beginner): 2v1 to 1 Goal & 2 Counters

2v1 to 1 Goal & 2 Counters (10 mins)

2v1 to 1 Goal & 2 Counters

Organization: 12-18 x 10-15 grid. 1 small goal & 2 counters. 2 equal teams as shown. Balls by 1 small goal.

Game Rules: Game begins when a ball is played from defensive team to one of the two attackers to start a 2v1 dual. Attackers look to create chances to score while defender denies penetration and seeks to steal the ball to score on one of the 2 counter goals. Play until a goal is scored or the ball goes out of bounds. Attacking goals = +1 point, Defensive goals = +2 points. Keep score and time. Switch Sides.

Modification/Challenge: Coach can play a ball in to help with game start or to challenge the players receiving it (in air means more time for D to compact space). Coach can keep a time limit on each dual (i.e. 10 seconds). Defensive player position can start from touchline (less challenging) or from same endline as attackers (more challenging). Can make/pivot to 2v1+1 trailing defender or 2v2 as needed. 

Coaching Points: Defensive player should look to make it 1v1 by cutting off pass to extra player with angled run at ball carrier at pace. If pass is played, protect the goal first and then go pressure the new ball carrier. Force away from help with sideways on pressure and good defensive jockey. Be patient to wait for poor touch from attacker to block or poke tackle the ball away. Win ball and counter immediately. Attackers must look to support at good angles and distances with movement off the ball. Ball carrier can be creative in 1v1 or combine for a 2v1 play.