TOPIC / THEME: Defending Skills

Forcing Play in one direction. Making play predictable by locking the ball in on one side of the field.

DESCRIPTION OF PRACTICE:
Coaching in the game session based on 7v7
ORGANISATION Making play predictable
65x45 (7v7) Inc GKs 1-2-3-1 formation to start	On an area roughly 65x45; depending on age, ability and previous experience of the players. 7v7 game. Start positions as shown (2-3-1). Players not restricted to areas but they should adhere to this formation in the game. There are no restrictions it is free play. Play starts from the red teams GK and he must distribute throughout in the defending third.

KEY OBSERVATION FACTORS:

Highest striker encourages distribution to the right and then quickly closes down at an angle cutting off return to GK and square to right back ( Speed, angle and line of approach + aggression) Tight marking of opponents in the vicinity of the ball. Sealing off dangerous space centrally Locking ball on one side as a team to press. Deciding when and where to press. (communication and intercepting/challenging) Press as a unit and attack quickly on the turnover( Patience and alertness)

NOTES:

The striker must cut out passes back across the pitch and lock the ball in on one side. This is the signal to the rest of the team to get tight and put physical and mental pressure on opponents. They must be patient and keep discipline before attempting to win the ball but they must work quickly to try and win the ball back early and high up the pitch.

Practical Coaching

Session Planner