Football/Soccer Session (Academy Sessions): Interceptions and Clearances

Rondo 4v2 (20 mins)

Learning Objectives

To develop passing, possession and creating space.

Description

In a square of 5 yards we play 4v2.

The four players outside the square have a maximun of 2 touches and must maintain possession playing only from outside of the square.

The two defenders inside the square have to intercept the ball. The player who looses possession ball will change roles to become a defender

Coaching Points

1- Create space to find the right position and angle to receive the ball.

2- Improve the speed of play by limiting to 1 touch when possible.

3- It is very important to coach the correct body shape for receiving passes.

4- The 2 defending players must communicate and work together, one closing down the player in possession and the other covering the angle for the pass.

Intercepting (20 mins)

Intercepting the ball is an alternative to tackling so we can regain possession to set up an attack.

How to run this drill

The server stands at one end, with the defender standing behind the attacker at the other. The attacker is passive but is allowed to move from side to side.The defender anticipates when the server will pass the ball to the attacker and tries to intercept it by stepping in front of the attacker.Switch roles during the drill so everyone has a go at being the defender.

What players need to think about in the drill.

-Mark goal- and ball-side.

-Stay within touching distance.

Keep ball and receiver in view.

-Slightly sideways-on body position.

-Anticipate the pass.

-Does passer’s eye or head movement give away intentions? Is the receiver set? Are their checked runs predictable?

-Don’t get turned.

-Jockey - move from side-to-side to hold up the player - if ball can’t be won.

SSG (25 mins)

Details

Play 2v1 in each end third and 2v2 in the middle third.

The goalkeeper begins by throwing the ball to an attacker. All three attackers must touch the ball before they can pass it into the other half to one of the midfielder.

Can the defender intercept the ball?

Progression

When moving into the attacking third from midfield third, the player in possession has the option of passing to one of the two forwards or attacking the goal himself by dribbling the ball.

Only one player from each area can break forward at any one time without being tracked by opposition.

Following the practice stages, we take away the restrictions of area and play SSG but emphasize the disciplines of good defending and attacking principles.

Technical

Practice - Execute correct technique on demanding

Tactical

Awareness of individual and collective group responsabilities

Physical

Full potential is progressively achieved

Psychological

Communication - understandin

Social

Accept responsibilities - Fun