Football/Soccer Session (Academy Sessions): (Foundation) Shooting & Defending I

Shooting & Defending I

Shooting & Defending I

Practice Organisation

-Area 25x25yds, with 5yd channel across full with marked with ones and goals t each end, set out as illustrated.

-14 Players (incl. 2GK’s), with outfield players arranged in 2 teams of 6.

-Each team has 2 Attackers & 4 Defenders.

-10 balls (5 balls for each team), move to collect a ball from the central area.

-On collection: D moves from edge of area to defend (making 2v1).

-Once attack has concluded: 2A’s collect 2nd ball and new D enters area to combat.

-A’s have 5 attacks, with different D’s against each attack.

-Practice is mirrored in other half of practice area.

-Players rotate roles and repeat practice.

Detail

-Area can be modified, depending on age and ability of players.

-Early decision to shoot from distance or move nearer to goal before the strike.

-Moving quickly but under control when moving forward.

-Timing and accuracy of pass to other attacker.

-How to bear the GK (techniques to use).

-Looking for finishing rebounds.

-Simple progression for this practice are:

-- Coach may vary overload (A/D ratio) depending on level of ability of individual players.

-- Allow 2nd D to enter.

-- Bring 3 Ds into area (1 from front, 2 from side) to increase intensity

Key Coaching Points

-A’s scan to assess position and movement of D

-Quickly move into goal-scoring range

-Evaluate which A is best position to score and either take shot or pass.

-Look to eliminate D with individual skill move or clever movement off ball

-Assess position of GK

U9’s – The players should be able to complete the Learning outcomes under passive pressure.

U10’s – The players should be able to complete the Learning outcomes at pace, under passive pressure.

U11’s – The players should be able to complete the Learning outcomes with increased pace, under passive pressure.