Football/Soccer Session (Academy Sessions): Pressing High Against a Team Building in 4-2-3-1

4v2 Ladders (15 mins)

Set-Up/Rules:

• 3 15x15 squares with 4v2 in the middle 
• Players must remain in the square at all times 
• To leave the defending team the player must win possession and then pass to an attacker that didn't lose possession 
• Player earns a point each time they lose possession and must defend 
• Players report scores to coach at the end (highest two scores get relegated for next week & lowest two get promoted)

Intervals:

• 3 x 3:30 (1:00 rest)

Coaching Points:

• Open body shape 
• On toes - sharp movements 
• Quality and deliberate passing 
• Make the field big

8v10 Pressing Practice (30 mins)

Set-Up/Rules:

• Half field with one team playing towards a standard goal and the other playing towards three counter goals. 
• The defending team (blue) gets awarded an extra point for winning possession and scoring before the attacking team (red) can cross the line through the middle of the pitch

Intervals:

• 3 x 7:00 (2:30 rest)

Coaching Points:

• Keep play to one side
• Narrow starting shape
• LW/RW tucks inside to create box in midfield
• Show opponent to free midfielder

Key Terms:

• Bait & Fire 
• Steer
• Creep