Football/Soccer Session (Moderate): Low Block

Warm up Defending (15 mins)

Warm up/Organisation

Work with the back four- 4 v 4 in the penalty area with the rest of the players on the outside of the penalty area.

The 4 attackers and 4 defenders in the penalty area must stay in the area- The outside players are support players. Can cross balls in or just keep ball simple and give it to attacking team.

The aim of the game is for the attackers to try to score against the defenders. The defenders must work as a unit to try to stop them scoring. It's a tight space so defedners need to be aggressive and close down space quickly.

If defenders win the ball they play ball through either gate outside the penalty area to players feet to get a point.

High intensity.Balls keep recycling. Swap attackers after 2 minutes.

Progression

Include scenarios- The defensive team are 1-0 up with 2 minutes to go and if they don't let in a goal they progress to the final of the world cup.

Key points

Pressure on the ball, be aggressive.

Stay on your feet and don't dive in if possible.

Pressure, cover balance and working as a unit.

Communication between back 4 and G.K

When you win the ball ensure you play it forward and accurately through gate.

Phase of play (25 mins)

Organisation

Reds v Blues defence against attack.

Reds set up- 4-3-1

Blues set up- 1-3-3

Focus on the reds team defensive shape.

Session Explanation

Play will start from the coach attackers look to penetrate the goal and the defenders look to maintain shape and win the ball back when possible. They will then look to play back through the thirds and score in either goal.

Red team look to press high when they haven't got the ball and squeeze up the field. If blue team beat the press defenders must drop and try to delay the counter- Be aggressive when defending the penalty box but don't foul and be patient.

Technical - body shape, distance, time of challenge, speed, angle of body.

Tactical - look to maintain shape and then win the ball when possible, do not rush and be patient to win the ball back. Work as a team and show players away from goal if possible. Midfielders double up and support FB's if needed.

Physical - maintain cardio fitness, good agility/co ordination.

Psychological/Social - good decision making/communication necessary/spatial and positional awareness.When defenders win the ball look forward to counter.

Learning Objectives - look to maintain shape as a team (unit) throughout the match when defending, look for covering of positions/shape throughout.