Football/Soccer Session (Academy Sessions): Mavericks U15B - Week 7.1 - Pressing to Win the Ball Back (Start Time: 2018-05-30 17:30:00)

Technical - Double Diamond (10 mins)

Organization:

-2 balls working

-2 players at each marker.

Instructions:

-Players pass and follow around the grid. A to B, B to C etc.

-Rotation is always the same.

-Ensure drill works in both directions so players use their left and right foot.

-Add in different patterns and allow players to select one.

Coaching Points:

-Weight & accuracy of passing to the receiving players back foot.

-Players should commit to the pass. Pass the ball firmly.

-Movement off the ball to create space to receive the ball.

-1st touch & control – angle & weight.

-Scanning & awareness.

-Communication.

Progressions:

3v3 Continous (25 mins)

Organization: Space is 34x44. Can play with anywhere from 8 to 12 on each team plus GKs. There are 3 stations at each endline where players start from. Balls are located at the opposite corner of the grid and play will always start there. This exercise incorporates rest when the players are waiting to step on, so intervals of 5-7 minutes are appropriate. Play at least 2 intervals, switch the location of the balls to the opposite side in second interval.

Instructions: White starts with the ball and runs on the field with a ball, at the same time blue steps out to defend and prevent a shot. This initiates the 3v3 duel. If white shoots and scores or shoots and the ball goes off the endline, they stay for the next duel and a new blue team of 3 runs on with a ball to attack. Thus, a new 3v3 duel with the same white. If blue takes the ball from white and shoots and scores or misses, a new white 3 run on with the ball. Basically, anytime the ball crosses the opposing endline, the defending 3 are off and a new 3 from that same team run on with a ball. If the ball crosses the sideline, there are 2 options for rules. Either, the appropriate team takes a throw-in, or, the team that played the ball out is off, with a new 3 coming on.

Coaching Points: This game should be very hectic, chaotic, and fast. There is a demand for players to think and react to the rules as they happen fast, but to also step out and close down space. The attacking team is so close to goal that if the defenders give them any space, there is room to shoot, which means the defenders are likely to have to step off. Many 1v1 duels. Opportunity for attacking players to create and score, demand for all players to defend and support to prevent shots and goals. High physical intensity and high competitiveness must be balanced to eliminate injuries. Can institute a no slide tackles rule, all players must stay on feet. This also encourages proper defending and moving feet.