TOPIC / THEME

Defending In The Modern Game

Progression 4 - 2 v 2 Pressure and Support (Cover)

DESCRIPTION OF PRACTICE (TECHNIQUE / SKILL)

Defending In The Modern Game 2 v 2

Pressure / Support / HELP / Angle / Distance of Support

A Practice to help players improve techniques in basic defending - pressure & support

This practice emphasizes the link between effective pressure & support - dependant

ORGANISATION

Players play in a 15 x 12 metre grid With two 5 metre end zones

1. Three Reds pass ball between them in end zone, as do 3 yellows

2. On Coaches signal two reds leave area to receive a pass from 1 remaining red end zone player

3. As soon as 2 reds moves out, 2 nearest yellow gets out fast to close down 2 attackers

4. Server in End Zone plays a pass into central receivers

5. Two defenders work to press and support and prevent forward passes into their end zone

KEY OBSERVATION

Nearest Defenders React - as soon as possible. React. Get out fast - Brakes!!

First (Nearest) Defender PRESS - as close as possible - stop forward play

Second Defender SUPPORT First - Angle & Distance-see your attacker & ball

Changing Roles - In - Out - In / Who Presses - Who Covers - What next

Decision Making - Nearest Presses / Next Supports - Win It - YES? - NO?

End Product - If we win it, Counter / Delay / Frustrate / stop forward play

NOTES

Make practice match like - 2 groups in zone keeping possession - then a game practice

Coach can dictate practice by names, numbers OR players can dictate by their movement

Must Play offside - get attackers to keep possession in front of defenders - simple

Can defenders force attackers back - Investigate the advantages - Stop forward play

Coach constant interchange of Roles - Communication from Support player is vital

Practical Coaching

Session Planner

5m

5m

15 x 12m