Football/Soccer Session (Beginner): Force (Skills Development Program)

Players should angle their run on approach to the ball by curving their run. This will force players away from the center of the pitch in an attempt to create a 1v1, isolating the player in the position of the ball.

In a 2v2, encourage players to be side on and low down this will ensure that they can change direction quickly if beaten. Being side-on will enable the defender to only show the attacker one way.

The closest player to the ball presses, the second player offers cover and support in behind. The second player must position themselves to screen off a forward pass but also be close enough to press the attacker should they get past the first defender. Once the ball shifts to the other attacker the defenders swap roles

The player who has scored must collect the ball as quickly as possible and make a quick recovery run, replacing the empty cone and then making their way back into the pitch to help defend.

The player who is pressing the ball must angle their run in an attempt to show the defender away from the centre of the pitch and guide them into a wide area. Once close they must also angle their body to keep the defender going in that direction and not allow them to come back inside or pass forward.

The player defending must be able to react quickly to a change of direction from the attackers by keeping the weight on the balls of their feet. They must move their feet quickly to maintain an angled body shape and continue to force the attacker away from the center of the pitch.

The closest player to the ball must apply pressure with the 2nd player providing depth and cover. The 2nd player must be close enough to provide cover if the first player is beaten but also able to get across to the second attacker should the ball be played square.