Football/Soccer Session (Moderate): Defending outnumbered

Warm-up on arrival: Rondo (10 mins)

Organization:

Cones set up to create circle to accommodate 10 players on the perimeter

2 defenders in the centre of circle and remainder of players inside of cones

Instruction:

Players attempt to pass the ball quickly and keep possession for as long as possible.

Player who kicks the ball out replaces a defender who has been in longest.

Defender who takes possession of the ball goes to attacking and attacker who lost possession becomes defender.

Switch defenders regularly if defenders don't win possession.

Coaching Points:

High Tempo to get warm

Don't stop play to coach.

All players need to get a chance to defend to get warm.

3 v 2 defence (20 mins)

Setup:

• 10 - 12 players
• 25 x 15 yard playing area
• Cones to mark out goals and playing area
• Pinnies
• Balls

Activity:

Attackers line up on the end between the 2 goals and defenders line up on both sides of single goal. As soon as an attacker dribbles out on the pitch, 2 additional attackers support and 2 defenders from the opposite end enter the pitch to defend and prevent the attackers from scoring. Attackers can only score on the single goal but defenders can score on either of the 2 goals at the attackers end if they win possession. The attackers can only score once they pass half. Defenders can finish on either goal from anywhere on the pitch, simulating a pass to a supporting midfielder when winning possession. Play restarts when the ball goes out of touch

Coaching Points:

• Speed of approach
• Angle of approach
• Delaying the play
• Pressure and cover
• Type of defensive pressure depending on area of pitch - high, mid, or low block