Football/Soccer Session (Beginner): 30.1 Defending Set Pieces

Initial Game (15 mins)

20x30 grid, 2 setups

-players start in middle 'channel'

-ball delivered in from player at top of grid who is trying to find blue teammates (this player does not join the play after)*encourage player to try different styles of delivery*

-defenders get 1 point for clearing ball out of the box towards gates in the corners

-attackers get point for scoring on either of the 3 goals (on ground)

-rotate roles after 2 mins

Progression: defenders get 2 points for finding outlet player at top of grid (after passing ball in, this player is now on the defender's team, shuffling along the top to be an option for the defenders)

Keys: in a game like situation, defending players must commit to getting ball out of defensive area; communication and determination needed

Coaching points: look at body shape of defenders as they come through to try and win ball; must have arm out and be comfortable making contact with opponent; are there moments where they should just hold up the defender rather than try to come through and win it?; also look at technique from previous activity

Defending Cks (10 mins)

SSG - 10v8

-play starts with a corner kick towards the main goal

-continue play after the CK until ball goes out (if defenders can clear ball, they continue playing to try and score on opposite goal)

-once ball goes out, restart again with a corner

-after 5 mins, GKs swap ends, rotate players as necessary

Key positions covered: front post, btwn front of 6/edge of 18, 2 players on top of 6, outlet option; rest of players mark up

-if ball played short, shaded players go defend

Game (15 mins)

Regular game but with added condition:

if you get scored on, you must then defend either a corner or a FK (coach's choice)

-coaches may also call random corners/FKs

-swap ends at halfway point