Purpose
The purpose of this drill is to improve a defenders ability to defend when the strikers back is toward goal
Set up
- 5 x 10-yard area with a halfway line
- 1 goal
- 2 soccer balls per group
- 6 players per group ( 3 attackers, 3 defenders)
How it works
The defending team will start from behind the goal and the attacking team starts with the ball on the opposite side.
The attacking team will have a player start on the halfway line and the phase of play will begin when the ball is played to the attacker. As soon as the pass is played to the attacker on the way line the defender can immediately pressure.
If the attacker scores in the goal they will get 3 points, however, if the defender wins the ball and dribbles past the line the attacker started on they will get 3 points and if they force the defender or ball out of bounds then they will get 1 point.
Coaching points
- Pressure the attacker quickly
- Keep the attacker arm’s length away in a side-on position staying goal side (in between the player and your goal)
- Force the attacker back and try not to let them turn
Questions
- What should you be doing as soon as the pass is played?
- What position should you be in when defending the attacker? Why?
- Where should you show the attacker?
