Football/Soccer Session (Academy Sessions): Defending in a Mid Block 1-4-5-1

Diamond Passing Warm up (15 mins)

Setup- Cones set up 10 -15 yards away from each other in a diamond shape

Player 1 plasses to player 2. Player 1 makes a run just off centre of the diamond. Player 2 cushions the ball into Player 1 and turns and runs to Player 3's position. As Player 2 makes his pass, Player 3 begins to make his run. Player 1 recieves the pass and first time plays in Player 3 who controls and dribbles the ball to the Cone on the left, Player 1 takes up Player 2's original position. Player 3 then makes a pass to Player 4 who starts the Drill again. Player 3 continues his run and joins the end of the line behind Player 5.

Coaching Points - First touch is very important. Keep moving and on the toes at all times. Cushioned Pass is important so demonstrate if you need to.

Progressions - Switch direction of the initial pass, Use both feet.

Tactical Shape for Mid Block (20 mins)

Method:

Explanation; 11v 10, Ball starts with Blue team and they have to try to score. Reds teams objective is to block centrally, force opposition out wide and regain possession to escape out the top of the pitch

Learning; we want to be able to block the central danger areas and when forced out wide set our trap to press and regain possession

Coaching Points:

Good decisions when to press; Patience; tight and compact; tilt from side to side with no gaps; up and down the pitch as a unit; dont get dragged out of shape; Hold the offside line;