Football/Soccer Session (Academy Sessions): General Session - Defending the Lines 4v4+4

4v4+4 Defend the Lines (30 mins)

Organization:

20 X 25 yard Grid

Split into 4 layers as shown

4 goals positioned as shown

3 Teams of 4 players - 2 teams placed in middle channels

6 X 4 minute blocks 1 minute rest

Challenges, Conditions or Targets:

Possession Team in Red must move the ball and try to break line of the recovery team in white to connect to the players in black. Players in black must then connect to the opposite player in their zone to score.

Recovery team look to press the player in possession. Middle two zones are free movement.

Points scored by scoring on the goals

Recovery team, can attack towards the opposite two goals whne they win transition into possession.

Key Points:

Immediate pressure on the ball

Prevent passes through, around and over the line

Minimize gaps, stay compact and narrow and prevent split passes.

Protect the space in behind - if lines are broken quickly recover into the goal zone to prevent scoring opporutnity

Communication to team mates - ensure players stay compact. 

Body shape when pressing - don't overcommit - make the play predictable for team mates.