Football/Soccer Session (Moderate): Defending - Final Third

Proactive Defending (20 mins)

Set Up: 25*25 grid. Two mini goals on one end line and a supply of balls with a server on the opposite end line.

Players: 8-9 players (adjust according to numbers).

Description: 3v3 inside the grid + 1 target player in a small central zone between the goals. Play starts with the server playing out to blue. Blue can score in either one of the two mini goals only AFTER playing through the central target player. Red can score by either dribbling or passing into the zone immediately in front of the server. Switch roles after 3 minutes.

Key Factors:

Nothing through.

Pressure, cover and balance.

Force the opposition outside.

Screening passes into the target.

Turn the player once the ball is played past you and back pressure.

Final Game (20 mins)

Set Up: Quarter field at Pine Glen. Balls along the outside and in the goals.

Players: 2 teams - 6 outfield and 1 goalkeeper for each team on field. Players manage substitutions.

Description: Play 7v7 (including GK). All regular rules apply, including retreat line. Each team plays 1-2-1-3. Each team will either press or block for 6 minutes at a time. Final 6 minutes or so consists of free play and players' choice.

Key Factors:

All coaching points from the session - focus on compactness and balance (side to side/front to back). Look for players to get in behind the ball and make the right decision as to when to press and when not to press. Ensure the defending team is not allowing penetrating passes to go through and have good overall shape. Keep everything outside - nothing gets through. Lots of communication!