Football/Soccer Session (Moderate): Summer Session - 2/3v2 defending

2 v 2 - Progress to 3 v 2 (15 mins)

Organization:

- Set up players as outlined above

- 20f Wide/30f long 

Activity:

- Defensive player passes ball to one of the attacking players.

- Attacking players have to work together to score in the Pug Net

- If defensive players win the ball they just need to dribble past the attacking offensive line highlighted above in Red

Coaching points:

• Instruct the defenders to close down the attackers as quickly as possible, but to be sure to arrive on balance so the attackers do not just push the ball past them. Defenders must shorten their steps when getting closer to the attackers and constantly move their feet.
• The defender closest to the player on the ball applies more pressure than the defender further away. The defender further away supports the defender applying pressure.
• Give hints as the activity progresses. Teach the defenders to channel attackers away from the goal, or use their weaker foot.
• Remind players to defend with their body sideways on a 45-degree angle. Players should try to get close enough to the attacker to make them put their head down.

Progression 3 v 2

• Educate the defenders to work together and eliminate the third player by using good body positioning to cut off passing angles. Forcing the player on the ball towards the other defending and cutting off passing angles to the third player allows the defenders to player 2-on-2.
• Teach the defenders to close down space when a pass is made.
• Remind the defenders to maintain balance and proper footwork to prevent the attackers from pushing the ball past them easily. Defenders should not reach for the ball, but rather time their tackles to be sure they will win the ball