Football/Soccer Session (Moderate): GU14 Defensive Principles Contn'd

Tech Warmup-1v1 To 2v2 defending (20 mins)

SET UP: 10x20

Activity 1: Player A passes to B who attempts to beat Player A by dribbling to the scoring box/gate on A's side. A attempts to delay and defend to win the ball. If player B can beat the defender to the scoring box 1 point. If defender can spoil the play 1 point. If defender can win ball and dribble to attackers line or pass to next player in line 2 points.

Coaching points as above but understand where "goal" is to force attacker away and quick transition on winning the ball.

Coaching points:

Close down with speed

Don't dive in but get close enough to affect opponent

Body position side on and on toes

Follow ball movement not player

Activity 2

Same as Progression 1 above except now it's 2 v2

Coaching points same as above but defenders communicate early and often. Specific direction. Pressure and cover shape.

Coach can position attackers "goal" wherever he would like on defenders end line to affect their play.

Main activity-Defending the Final 3rd (20 mins)

Use half field. 6 or 7 attackers vs 8 defenders and a keeper

Attackers are attacking the large net. Defenders are protecting if they win the ball can transition to attack and score by dribbling through any of the 3 gates at half.

If ball goes out or into touch play restarts with attacker A

Coaching Points:

Back four working together with holding midfielder.

Pressure - cover - balance.

Communication.

Shape and spacing.

Other midfielders compact defensively, pressure near ball, cover and balance

Transition to attack on winning possession