Football/Soccer Session (Academy Sessions): Midfield defending (Start Time: 06-Apr-2015 18:30h)

Midfield defending SSG (25 mins)

Midfield defending focus on denying combinations, switch and forward passes

Setup

Area 60 x4 0yds, divided into 8 grids, each measuring 20 x 15yds with

appropriate size goals at each end

6 players, arranged 8 v 8

balls by each goal

off-side rules apply over the halfway line.

Sequence

play starts CB

Team in possession, look to build play through good ball retention and controlled possession, with the objective of scoring on goals opponent is defending

Defending team look to counter-attack on gaining possession

Open play continues until ball is out of play

Focus

Main factor affecting decision to press ball is whether pressing

player can affect player in possession and force error

Early recognition of possible opportunity by individuals to force

errors and unsettle opponents seeking to gain composed possession

Understanding the need to remain compact centrally as a team, sliding

across, marking and covering when opposition are established

in position

Defending team remain compact and concentrate numbers in area of

field where ball, is with good spacing and appropriate depth

If defensive block is established: decision to press

ball needs to be taken.

If not involved in pressing: other D’s mark, cover or balance.

Communication between players, especially those from behind, who

have a clearer picture of oppositions team arrangements.

Understanding of transition from defending to breaking out to create

width and attack.

Options

-If defending team gains possession it has limited time 7secs

to counter-attack and strike on goal.

-Counter-attacking team limited to 5 passes before taking shot

-Defending team remain compact & concentrate numbers in area of

field where ball, is with good spacing & appropriate depth.

-If defensive block is established: decision to press

ball needs to be taken.

-If not involved in pressing: other D’s mark, cover or balance.

-Communication between players, especially those from behind, who

have a clearer picture of oppositions team arrangements.

-Understanding of transition from defending to breaking out to create

width & attack.