Mission Statement. To deliver the highest standards of excellence in soccer development to everyone.

Transcription

1 NVFC DRILL DOCUMENT

2 Mission Statement To deliver the highest standards of excellence in soccer development to everyone.

3 INTRODUCTION NVFC is proud to present all Club coaches with a drill book which contains exercises coaches can use at their training sessions throughout the season. The book is split into 5 chapters focussing on the following topics: Dribbling, Turning, Shielding, 1v1 Attacking and Defending Passing and Receiving, Support and Possession Running with the Ball Shooting, volley and heading techniques Defending Each chapter is then split into 4 categories: Warm up exercises Technique exercises (unopposed) Skill exercises (opposed) Small Sided Games All exercise s in this book come complete with diagram, a description of the exercise, progressions and coaching points to observe. All exercise s can be adapted to suit playing conditions, age and ability of the players. How to use this book This book is designed to assist coaches when planning their sessions and is very easy to use just follow the steps below: Step 1 - Select a topic you wish to work on with your players from one of the chapters in the book. Step 2 Select one of the Warm up exercises from the chapter that relates to your topic. Step 3 Select one of the Technique exercises from the chapter that relates to your topic. Step 4 Select one of the Skill exercises from the chapter that relates to your topic. Step 5 Select one of the Small sided games from the chapter that relates to your topic.

4 Once you have done this you will now have your session planned bellow is an example: Topic Passing and Support Play Warm Up Juggling Set up a 20x20yd grid, each player with a ball. Players perform the following juggling exercises: Laces of both feet Inside of both feet Outside of both feet Thighs Thighs, feet Chest Thigh, chest, Head Shoulders Be creative introduce different combinations. Technique Exercise 4 Square Passing Serve from hands Players should start by perform 1 juggle and catch, and move to 2 juggles and catch, and so on. Keep eyes on the ball Watch ball onto juggling surface Use Correct juggling technique Set up four 10x10yd grids, split players into groups of 3 with 1 ball between each group. Players pass the ball, and run around a cone before receiving the next pass. (See Diagram) Spread out to create pace Timing, weight and accuracy of the pass Head up observe space, players and ball Angles of support Support early to receive pass Communication Players pass to another square on coaches command: Clockwise Anti-clockwise Horizontal Vertical Diagonal Limit players to 2 or 1 touch

5 Skill Exercise 3v1 Follow Pass Set up two 8x8yd grids with 3 attackers in one grid and 2 attackers in the other grid. The drill starts by a defending player passing the ball into th group of 3 creating a 3v1 situation. The attacker attempt to make 4 passes before they are allowed to pass to the 2 attackers in the other grid. The player who passes the ball follows their pass again creating a 3v1 situation (see Diagram). If the attackers manage to switch grids 3 times or the defender wins the ball a new defender is introduced Spread out to create space Be on the balls of your feet ready to receive a pass Move into line of the ball Head up observe Space and players Timing, weight and accuracy of the pass Communication Angles of support Support early Increase the number of passes before the ball can be played across. Introduce a second defender making it 3v2 Small sided Game 5v5 with target players Set up a 50x30yd field. Players play 5v5 game with 2 target players. To score players must pass the ball into their target player. In the defensive 3 rd players can use the opposing teams target player as a supporting player. Spread out create space Timing, weight and accuracy of the pass Head up observe space, players and ball Communicate Angles of support Support early Make forward runs Look to pass to the target player early Limit players to 2 touch

6 Dribbling, Turning, Shielding 1v1 Attacking and Defending

7 Warm Up Exercises Basic Dribbling Set up a 15x15yd grid each player with a ball, players perform the following exercises: Inside Taps Jog on the ball Roll ball across body and tap with inside of other foot Dribble using inside/outside right foot Dribble using inside/outside left foot Dribble using insides of both feet Dribble using outside of both feet Dribble using sole of both feet Free to use all parts of both feet Be on the balls of your feet, knees bent Head up observe space Keep ball close at all times Use correct techniques o Inside (across body) o Outside (away from body) o Sole (all directions) Brazilian Ball Work Set up a 15x15yd grid each player with a ball, players perform the following exercises: Tap ball side to side with the inside of each foot. Same as above after 3 taps turn using the sole of the foot After 3 taps turn using the inside of the foot Jog on the ball Brazilian Dance Using the sole role the ball from foot to foot Same as above but slightly move the ball outside before rolling the ball to the other foot. Roll the ball across the body using the sole and then tap the ball with the inside of the other foot. Stationary scissors Moving scissors Stationary step over Moving Step over Roll the ball across body using sole and step over with other foot. (Be creative: drill can be used to introduce new feints and turns) Players should perform all exercises at own pace Each move leads onto the next Focus on correct techniques Once players are comfortable can they increase speed Head up observe space

8 Feints and Tricks Set up a 20x20yd grid and randomly place balls inside the grid, Players lightly jog around the grid from ball to ball and perform the following exercises at each ball. Bend down and touch the ball with their hand 4 inside taps 4 Toe taps 4 Mathews (Drop Shoulder) 4 Mathews carry ball for a few strides 4 Scissors 4 Scissors carry ball for a few strides 4 Step-overs 4 Step-overs Carry ball for a few strides (Be creative: drill can be used to introduce new feints and turns) Players should perform all exercises at own pace Focus on correct techniques Once players are comfortable can they increase speed Quick change of pace and direction Head up observe space Turns, Turns, Turns Set up a 15x15yd grid each player with a ball, Players dribble their ball towards the cones marking the grid and perform the following turns: Inside hook Outside hook Drag back Stop Turn Step-over Cruyff Once players are comfortable see how many turns they can perform in 30secs Be on the balls of your feet, knees bent Head up observe space Keep ball close at all times Slow approach Use correct techniques when performing the turn Accelerate out of the turn keeping ball close and head up.

9 Technique Exercises Feints: Corners Set up a 20x20yd grid, with 2 gates marked out in each corner, 1 yellow, 1red. 4 groups of 2 or 3 players each with a ball start facing the gates (see diagram). Each player in turn dribbles towards one of the gates and then changes direction to go through the other gate using the following techniques: Mathews (drop Shoulder) Double touch Scissors Be on the balls of your feet, knees bent Approach gate at an angle using inside of the foot keeping ball close Pretend to go through the gate you are approaching by using one of the above feints Accelerate and change direction to go through the opposite gate When performing Scissors approach should be between the gates carrying ball with the laces. Feints: Corners Introduce a defender who attempts to block the gate the attacker is trying to go through. Attacking Head up observe defender Use feints to send defender towards one of the gates If defender blocks the yellow gate accelerate through the red gate (vice versa) Defending Stand in one gate forcing attacker towards the other gate As the attacker gets closer slowly close down the space Make tackle

10 Feints: Ladder of Tricks and Feints Set up cones as shown in the diagram about 3-4yds apart. Players get into pairs with a ball between each pair. The ball is placed between the 2 cones with each player either side of the line (see diagram). The aim of the drill is for the attacker to move the ball to one of the 2 cones and the defenders job is to try to touch the cone 1 st. Players compete for 1min player that wins moves up the ladder. Be on balls of your feet, Knees bent Head up observe defender Use feints and tricks to unbalance defender Once you have unbalanced defender accelerate and take ball to the opposite cone Attacking players can move ball as part of the disguise Both players have a ball Feints and Turns: Working in Pairs Set up a series of 15x10yd grids (see diagram) Split players into pairs with a ball each and have them perform one of the exercises described below. 1. Players dribble their ball towards one another and perform a feint. 2. Players dribble ball towards one another and perform a turn 3. Players take turns to dribble to end line and perform a turn 4. Player passes to partner and follows pass, the player receiving dribble ball towards the incoming player and performs a feint Be on the balls of your feet, knees bent Head up Keep ball close at all times Slow approach Use correct techniques and distance when performing the feint or turn Accelerate out of the feint or turn keeping ball close and head up.

11 Dribbling, Feints and Turns: Circle Drill 1 Set up a 5x5yd grid and have all players form a circle around the grid about 10yds out. Use 2 balls to start, players must dribble ball into the grid and change direction leaving through a different side of the grid. The player then passes the ball to a player on the outside a switches places Be on the balls of your feet to receive pass Good positive 1 st touch attack the space Head up observe space Quick change of pace and direction out of inside grid Quality pass to outside player Introduce another ball Players must perform a feint or turn inside the grid Players pass ball from inside the grid through a different side that they entered Dribbling and Feints: Circle Drill 2 Players form a large circle, use 2 balls to start. The player inside the circle passes to a player on the outside and follows the pass. The player receiving the ball dribbles towards the player and performs a feint to go around the player Be on the balls of your feet to receive pass Good positive 1 st touch attack the space Head up observe defender Keep ball close at all times Slow approach Use correct techniques and distance when performing the feint Accelerate out of the feint keeping ball close and head up. Quality pass to outside player Introduce another ball

12 Turns: Dutch Turning Square Set up a 15x15yd grid with a cone in the middle. Split players into pairs with a ball each. Each pair stands on the corners of the grid (see diagram). Players dribble their ball towards the central con and perform the following turns Inside hook Outside hook Drag back Stop Turn Step-over Cruyff Be on the balls of your feet, knees bent Head up Keep ball close at all times Slow approach Use correct techniques when performing the turn Accelerate out of the turn keeping ball close and head up. Introduce a passive defender instead of the cone. Can the defender touch a ball Dribbling, Turning and Shielding: Loose you re Partner Set up a 15x15yd grid, Split group into pairs with one ball between two. Player with the ball must attempt to loose their partner who attempts to keep one hand on their shoulder. Players switch role after 30 seconds. Be on the balls of your feet, knees bent Keep ball close Head up observe space Use feints and turns to loose partner Turn and face partner if there is enough space

13 Dribbling, Turning and Shielding: Gate Game Set up a 15x15yd grid, with a series of small gates marked out by cones (see Diagram). Split group into pairs with one ball between two. Player with the ball must attempt to dribble through the gates while their partner attempts to block the gates. Players switch roles after 30 seconds and try to beat partners score. Be on the balls of your feet, knees bent Keep ball close Head up observe partner, space and gates Use feints and turns to send partner towards a gate Accelerate in opposite direction towards another gate Players are allowed to win the ball Shielding: Protect your Ball Set up a 15x15yd grid each player has a bal except for three defenders. The defenders have 3 or 5 seconds to attempt to touch an attacker s ball. If they fail they must attempt to touch somebody else s, if they succeed the attacker becomes the defender. Keep ball on furthest leg from defender Get body between defender and the ball Bend knees for balance Use body to fend off defender Variation All players have a ball and attempt to knock each others out of the square

14 Shielding: Inside the Box Set up a series of 5x5yd grids. Players get into pairs with a ball between the pair the player with the ball attempts to protect their ball while the defender attempt to touch the ball, after 30 seconds players switch roles. The player who touches the ball more times moves up to the next grid while the other stays. Keep ball on furthest leg from defender Get body between defender and the ball Bend knees for balance Use body to fend off defender Both players have a ball

15 1v1 Attacking/Defending: 1v1 Ladder Skill (Opposed) Exercises Set up a series of 15x10yd grids (see diagram) Players split into pairs and have a ball between them. The player with the ball starts the drill by passing to their partner who then attempts to beat their partner by dribbling across the end line. Play for 3mins the player with the most points moves up the ladder. Attacking Positive 1 st touch attack space run at defender Keep ball close Head up observe defender Use feints to try to unbalance defender Once you have unbalanced defender, change direction, accelerate and take ball past them. Defending Angle of approach into line and down the line Make up as much ground as ball is in motion As player receives ball slow down and close down Force player in one direction Jockey be patient Can you win the ball 1v1 Attacking/Defending: 2 Goal Game Set up a 15x10yd grid with 2 small goals either end. Players form a line either end between the 2 goals. The attacking player starts with the ball and attempts to dribble through one of the 2 goals. Attacking Be positive attack space run at defender Keep ball close Head up observe defender Use feints to try to unbalance defender Once you have unbalanced defender accelerate and take in opposite direction towards the goal Defending Angle of approach into line and down the line As player gets closer ball slow down and close down Force player in one direction Jockey be patient Can you win the ball

16 1v1 Attacking/Defending: In front of Goal Set up an area in the penalty box as shown in the diagram. Defenders line up with a ball either side of the goal posts with attackers opposite just outside the penalty box. The drill starts with the defender playing the ball into the attacker. The attacker tries to score. Attacking Positive 1 st touch attack space run at defender Keep ball close Head up observe defender Use feints to try to unbalance defender and create space for a shot on goal Once you have created space to shoot take the opportunity Quality of shot Defending Angle of approach into line and down the line Make up as much ground as ball is in motion As player receives ball slow down and close down Force player away from goal Jockey be patient Can you win the ball

17 Small Sided Conditioned Games Dribbling, Turning and Shielding: 4v4 Dribble into End Zone Set up a 30x20yd field with 2 end zones of 3yds. Players play a 4v4 and attempt to dribble into the opponent s end zone. Defending players are not allowed in either end zone, this allows the attacking team the opportunity to pass or dribble into their own end zone to keep possession if the pass or dribble forward is not on. Players are encouraged to dribble and take on defenders in 1v1 situations when space is available If space is not available players should keep possession by: o Looking for the forward pass o Passing to team mate in a better position o Passing back to a team mate in their own end zone o Dribbling into their own end zone Movement of support players to create space for the player on the ball Support behind dribbling player in case possession is lost Quality of end product Dribbling, Turning, Shielding and Flank Play: 4v4 Dribble into End Zone Set up as previous drill but add 2 wide channels 5yds wide (see diagram). Attackers inside the playing area are allowed to use these channels to move forward but must re-enter the playing area to dribble into the end zone. Players are encouraged to dribble and take on defenders in 1v1 situations when space is available If space is not available players should keep possession by: o Looking for the forward pass o Use channels to move up the field o Passing to team mate in a better position o Passing back to a team mate in their own end zone o Dribbling into their own end zone Movement of support players to create space for the player on the ball Support behind dribbling player in case possession is lost Quality of end product

18 Dribbling, Turning, Shielding, Shooting and Flank Play: 4v4 Dribble into End Zone to Shoot on Goal Set up as previous drill but make the end zones 15yds with a goal at the end (see diagram). Once a player has dribbled across the end zone they can shoot on goal. Players are encouraged to dribble and take on defenders in 1v1 situations when space is available If space is not available players should keep possession by: o Looking for the forward pass o Use channels to move up the field o Passing to team mate in a better position o Passing back to a team mate in their own end zone o Dribbling into their own end zone Movement of support players to create space for the player on the ball Support behind dribbling player in case possession is lost Decision in end zone shoot early or take keeper on 1v1 Quality of end product Dribbling, Turning, Shielding and Switching the Play: 4v4 Four Goal Game Set up a 30x20yd field with 4 small 4yd goals (see diagram). Players play a 4v4 game and attempt to dribble through either of their opponents 2 goals. Play restarts by players playing the ball in from the touch line. Players are encouraged to dribble and take on defenders in 1v1 situations when space is available If space is not available players should keep possession by: o Looking to quickly switch the point of attack o Looking for the forward pass o Passing to team mate in a better position o Passing back to a team mate Movement of support players to create space for the player on the ball Support behind dribbling player in case possession is lost Quality of end product

19 Dribbling, Turning and Shielding: 4v4 Gate Game Set up a 30x30yd grid, with a series of small gates marked out by cones (see Diagram). 4v4 game the object of the game is to dribble through the gates to score Players are encouraged to dribble through gates and take on defenders in 1v1 situations when space is available If space is not available players should keep possession by: o Passing to a team mate in a position to score o Looking to quickly switch the point of attack o Passing to team mate in a better position Movement of support players to create space for the player on the ball Quality of end product Remove gates slowly reducing options to score Dribbling, Turning and Shielding : 6v6 Dribbling out from the Back Set up a 50x30yd field with 2 goals. Split the field into half s with 3 defenders and 2 Strikers in each half. Players are restricted to their own half. Defenders when attacking can dribble across the half way line to assist strikers. Create space, back 3 spread out strikers push on. Back players take opportunities to run the ball forward when space is available If space is not available to run the ball forward quickly switch the play to bring in opposite full back Players are encouraged to dribble and take on defenders in 1v1 situations when space is available in attacking half If space is not available players should keep possession by: o Looking for the forward pass o Passing to team mate in a better position o Passing back to a team mate Movement of support players to create space for the player on the ball Support behind dribbling player in case possession is lost Quality of end product

20 Passing & Receiving, Support and Possession

21 Warm Up Basic Passing and Receiving Set up a 20x20yd grid split players into pairs with one ball between two, players pass the ball back and forth using the following exercises: 4 Inside Taps on receiving the ball 4 Jogs on the ball on receiving the ball Receive using inside of the foot 1 touch passing Receive using inside of one foot and pass with inside of the other foot Receive using outside of the foot Receive using Sole of the foot Introduce movement by: Player that passes jogs into space, player receiving dribbles into space Pass and move 2 touch play Pass and look for a pass from different player Be on the balls of your feet Move into line of the ball Head up observe partner Use correct passing technique Comunication Brazilian Juggling Set up a 20x20yd grid, each player with a ball. Players perform the following juggling exercises: Laces of both feet Inside of both feet Outside of both feet Thighs Thighs, feet Chest Thigh, chest, Head Shoulders Be creative introduce different combinations. Serve from hands Players should start by perform 1 juggle and catch, and move to 2 juggles and catch, and so on. Keep eyes on the ball Watch ball onto juggling surface Use Correct juggling technique

22 Ariel Control Set up a 20x20yd grid, each player with a ball. Players serve the ball from their hands and use the following control techniques: Inside foot wedge Outside foot wedge Cushion with laces Cushion with inside Cushion with outside Cushion with thigh Cushion with Chest Once players are comfortable with the technique have them move off into space. Be on balls of the feet Keep eyes on the ball Watch ball onto controlling surface Use correct technique to control the ball Head up attack space

23 Technique Exercises Passing and Receiving: Basic Passing Set up a series of 10x3yd grids as shown in the diagram. Split players into pairs with one ball between two, players begin by passing the ball back and forth over 5yds using the following exercises: Receive using inside of the foot 1 touch passing Receive using inside of one foot and pass with inside of the other foot Receive using outside of the foot Receive using Sole of the foot Once players are comfortable increase distance to 10yds. Be on the balls of your feet Move into line of the ball Head up observe partner Use correct passing technique Communication Variation Increase grid to 15 or 20yds to work on long passing techniques Passing and Receiving: Passing Gates Set up a 15x15yd grid with four 3yd gates marked on the perimeter as shown in the diagram. Split players into pairs with one ball between two, players pass the ball back and forth over a distance of 5yds through the gates and perform the following exercises: Receive using inside of the foot 1 touch passing Receive using inside of one foot and pass with inside of the other foot Receive using outside of the foot Receive using Sole of the foot Be on the balls of your feet Move into line of the ball Head up observe partner Use correct passing technique Communication Once the player has passed the ball back to their partner they move inside the grid looking for a pass off a different player. On receiving the ball the player turns and dribbles looking for a free player on the outside to pass to Drill can also be used for ariel control.

24 Passing, Receiving, Turning: Passing Lanes 1 Set up a series of 10x5yd grids as shown in the diagram. Split players into groups of three with one ball between each group (see Diagram). Players on the outside pass to the player in the middle who receives the ball on the half turn and passes. Player works for 30sec and then switches Be on the balls of your feet Side on body position Move into line of the ball Receive on back foot Head up observe players Use correct passing technique Communication Introduce different turns Player not involved in action can choose to put pressure on middle player to force them to shield and pass back. Passing and Receiving: Passing Lanes 2 Set up a series of 10x5yd grids as shown in the diagram. Split players into groups of three with one ball between each group (see Diagram). Player on the outside passes to the player in the middle who passes back and switches with the other player (see Diagram) Players works for 30sec and then switch Be on the balls of your feet Move into line of the ball Head up observe space and players Use correct passing technique Use correct running technique Communication Perform 1 touch.

25 Passing and Receiving: Passing Lanes 3 Set up a series of 10x5yd grids as shown in the diagram. Split players into groups of three with one ball between each group (see Diagram) Same as previous drill accept the back player switches on the diagonal (see Diagram) Players works for 30sec and then switch Be on the balls of your feet Move into line of the ball Head up observe space and players Use correct passing technique Use correct running technique Communication Perform 1 touch. Passing and Receiving: Passing Lanes 4 Set up a series of 10x5yd grids as shown in the diagram. Split players into groups of three with one ball between each group (see Diagram) Same as previous drill accept the players on the outside switch (see Diagram) Players works for 30sec and then switch Be on the balls of your feet Move into line of the ball Head up observe space and players Use correct passing technique Use correct running technique Communication Perform 1 touch.

26 Passing and Receiving: Passing Lanes 5 Set up a series of 10x5yd grids and have players stand in the starting positions (see Diagram). The drill starts by the 1st player in line passing to the next player who performs a half turn and passes to the next player who controls the ball to the next grid. The drill continues in this fashion. Players follow their pass with the last player in the sequence dribbling the ball to the back of the line (see Diagram). The next player in the line passes the ball after the 3 rd player in the sequence receives the ball Be on the balls of your feet Move into line of the ball Head up observe space and players Use correct passing technique Be ready to receive the next pass Communication Introduce different turns Passing and Receiving: Passing Lanes 6 Set up a series of 10x5yd grids and have players stand in the starting positions (see Diagram). Same as previous drill except the player receiving passes back for the player to play a long pass (see Diagram). The next player in the line passes the ball after the 3 rd player in the sequence receives the ball Be on the balls of your feet Move into line of the ball Head up observe space and player Use correct passing technique Angles of support Be ready to receive the next pass Communication Introduce different turns

27 Passing and Receiving: Circle Drill 1 Players form a large circle, use two balls to start. Players on the inside pass to a player on the outside and switch places. The drill continues in this fashion. Be on the balls of your feet Move into line of the ball Head up observe space and players Use correct passing technique Communication Passing and Receiving: Circle Drill 2 Players form a large circle, use two balls to start. Players on the inside pass to a player on the outside, who passes the ball back. The player then passes to another player on the outside and switch places (see Diagram). The drill continues in this fashion. Be on the balls of your feet Move into line of the ball Head up observe space and players Use correct passing technique Angles of support Communicate Back or Switch

28 Passing and Receiving: Circle Drill 3 Players form a large circle, use two balls to start. Players on the inside pass to a player on the outside performs an overlap around the player and receives a return pass. The player then passes to another player on the outside and switch places (see Diagram). The drill continues in this fashion. Be on the balls of your feet Move into line of the ball Head up observe space and players Use correct passing technique Communicate Overlap or Switch Passing and Receiving: Circle Drill 4 Players form a large circle, use two balls to start. Players on the inside pass to a player on the outside who passes the ball back. The player then passes to one of the players either side they just passed to and switch places (see Diagram). The drill continues in this fashion. Be on the balls of your feet Move into line of the ball Head up observe space and players Use correct passing technique Angles of support Communication

29 Passing and Support: Triangle Support 1 Set up a 8x8yd grid, split players into groups of 3 with 1 ball between each group. Players pass the ball maintaining a supporting triangle at all times. (see Diagram) Be on the balls of your feet Open body position Move into line of the ball Head up observe space and players Use correct passing technique Communication Angles of support Support early Passing and Support: Triangle Support 2 Set up a 8x8yd grid, split players into groups of 3 with 1 ball between each group. Players pass the ball and perform crossover run maintaining a supporting triangle at all times. (See Diagram) Be on the balls of your feet Open body position Move into line of the ball Head up observe space and players Use correct passing technique Communication Angles of support Support early

30 Passing and Moving: 4 Square Passing Set up four 10x10yd grids, split players into groups of 3 with 1 ball between each group. Players pass the ball, and run around a cone before receiving the next pass. (See Diagram) Spread out to create pace Timing, weight and accuracy of the pass Head up observe space, players and ball Angles of support Support early to receive pass Communication Players pass to another square on coaches command: Clockwise Anti-clockwise Horizontal Vertical Diagonal Limit players to 2 or 1 touch Passing and Moving: Double Rectangle Set up two 20x10yd grids, split players into groups of 5 or 6 with 1 ball between each group. Players pass the ball, and run around a cone before receiving the next pass. (See Diagram) Spread out to create space Timing, weight and accuracy of the pass Head up observe space, players and ball Angles of support Support early to receive pass Think 1 pass ahead Communication Limit players to 2 or 1 touch Introduce a second ball After making a pass players must run across to the other grid to receive their next pass

31 Passing and Moving: Numbers Passing Set up a 30x20yd grid, split players into groups of 3 or 4 with 1 ball between each group. Number players 1, 2, 3, Players pass the ball in sequence 1 to 2 to 3 to 1. Spread out to create space Timing, weight and accuracy of the pass Head up observe space, players and ball Angles of support Support early to receive pass Think 1 pass ahead Communication Limit players to 2 or 1 touch Passing and Moving: Quick Switch Set up a 30x20yd grid, split players into 2 teams with 1 ball between each team. 2 players from each team stand on opposite corners of the grid acting as Target players (See Diagram). Players have 3 passes to pass the ball form one Target player to the other. The player who passes to the Target player switches with the Target player. The drill continues in this fashion with both teams playing through each other. Spread out to create space Timing, weight and accuracy of the pass Head up observe space, players and ball Angles of support Support early to receive pass Make forward runs Communication Limit players to 2 or 1 touch Players have to perform a Wall Pass before playing into the target player

32 Skill Practices Passing and Support: Classic 3v1 Set up an 8x8yd grid, split players into 2 groups of 3 with 1 group as the attackers and the other group as the defenders. The drill starts by the defender passing the ball into the attackers. The attackers attempt to keep possession and prevent the defender from winning the ball. Once the attackers have made 10 passes or the defender wins the ball a new defender is introduced. Spread out to create space Be on the balls of your feet ready to receive a pass Move into line of the ball Head up observe Space and players Timing, weight and accuracy of the pass Communication Angles of support Support early Introduce a second defender making it 3v2 Passing and Support: 3v1 Follow Pass Set up two 8x8yd grids with 3 attackers in one grid and 2 attackers in the other grid. The drill starts by a defending player passing the ball into th group of 3 creating a 3v1 situation. The attacker attempt to make 4 passes before they are allowed to pass to the 2 attackers in the other grid. The player who passes the ball follows their pass again creating a 3v1 situation (see Diagram). If the attackers manage to switch grids 3 times or the defender wins the ball a new defender is introduced Spread out to create space Be on the balls of your feet ready to receive a pass Move into line of the ball Head up observe Space and players Timing, weight and accuracy of the pass Communication Angles of support Support early Increase the number of passes before the ball can be played across. Introduce a second defender making it 3v2

33 Passing and Support: 4v1 Pass through the Grid Set up an 8x8yd grid, split players into 2 groups of 4 with 1 group as the attackers and the other group as the defenders. The 4 attackers position themselves on the outside of the 4 sides of the grid (See Diagram)The drill starts by the defender passing the ball into the attackers. The attackers attempt to keep possession and prevent the defender from winning the ball. Once the attackers have made 10 passes or the defender wins the ball a new defender is introduced. Spread out to create space Be on the balls of your feet ready to receive a pass Move into line of the ball Head up observe Space and players Timing, weight and accuracy of the pass Communication Angles of support Support early Look for the forward pass Introduce a second defender making it 4v2 Passing and Support: 4v1 4 Goal Game Set up an 8x8yd grid with a small goal on each side of the grid (see Diagram), split players into 2 groups of 4 with 1 group as the attackers and the other group as the defenders. The drill starts by the defender passing the ball into the attackers. The attackers attempt to keep possession and prevent the defender from winning the ball. Once the attackers have made 10 passes or the defender wins the ball and scores by passing the ball through one of the small goals a new defender is introduced. Spread out to create space Be on the balls of your feet ready to receive a pass Move into line of the ball Head up observe Space and players Timing, weight and accuracy of the pass Communication Angles of support Support early Look for the forward pass Introduce a second defender making it 4v2

34 Small Sided Conditioned Games Possession: 3v3+3 Set up a 30x20yd grid, split players into 3 teams of 3 or 4. 2 teams work together to keep possession while the other team attempts to win the ball. If the defending team wins the ball the team that gave away possession becomes the defending team. Spread out create space Timing, weight and accuracy of the pass Head up observe space, players and ball Communicate Angles of support Support early Look for opportunities to switch the play Quick transition from defence to attack Limit players to 2 touch Players can only pass to a member of the opposite team Switching the Play: 3v3 with Target Players Set up a 30x20yd grid, split players into 2 teams of 5. 2 players from each team stand on opposite corners of the grid acting as Target players (See Diagram). Players play a 3v3 inside the grid and attempt to pass to one of the 2 target players to score. The player who passes to the target player switches with the target player. The ball must be now played to the opposite target player. If possession is lost and regained the ball can be passes to either of the target players. Spread out create space Timing, weight and accuracy of the pass Head up observe space, players and ball Communicate Angles of support Support early Make forward runs Look to pass to the target player early Limit players to 2 touch

35 Switching the Play: 4v4 4 Goal Game Set up a 30x20yd field with 4 small goals (see Diagram). Players play a 4v4 game and attempt to score in either of their opponents 2 goals. Play restarts by players playing the ball in from the touchline Spread out create space Timing, weight and accuracy of the pass Head up observe space, players and ball Communicate Angles of support Support early Runs off the ball Look to switch the play early Limit players to 2 touch Introduce Keepers Forward Passing: 4v4 Pass to Striker to Score Set up a 30x20yd field with 2 goals. Players play a 4v4 game, a goal can only be scored if the ball is passed forward into the striker 1 st. Spread out create space Timing, weight and accuracy of the pass Head up observe space, players and ball Communicate Angles of support Support early Look to play the striker early Players movement to support striker. Limit players to 2 touch

36 Passing and Support: 5v5 with target players Set up a 50x30yd field. Players play 5v5 game with 2 target players. To score players must pass the ball into their target player. In the defensive 3 rd players can use the opposing teams target player as a supporting player. Spread out create space Timing, weight and accuracy of the pass Head up observe space, players and ball Communicate Angles of support Support early Make forward runs Look to pass to the target player early Limit players to 2 touch

37 Running with the Ball

38 Warm Up Warm up: Small Grid, Big Grid Set up a small 8x8yd grid with a large 20x20 grid surrounding the small grid (see Diagram). Each player has a ball and start by performing dribbling exercises set by the coach. At any time the coach can shout Big Grid and all players must run with the ball to the perimeter of the big grid. Use correct dribbling techniques in small grid Big Grid Positive 1 st touch towards the big grid Move quickly towards the perimeter of the big grid Head up avoid collisions and Look to find space on the perimeter Use laces to run with ball, Keeping ball about 1yd ahead Warm Up: 2 Grid Warm up Set up 2 grids each 10x15yds with a 10yd gap separating the 2 grids (see diagram). Split the players into 2 groups with 1 group in each grid. Players perform dribbling exercises set by the coach. At any time the coach can shout Switch Grids and all players must run with the ball to the opposite grid. Use correct dribbling techniques Switch Grids Positive 1 st touch towards the opposite grid Move quickly across to the opposite grid Head up avoid collisions Use laces to run with ball, Keeping ball about 1yd ahead Slow down when entering the new grid

39 Technique Practices Running with the Ball: Classic line Drill Split players into 2 groups with 1 ball between each group. Each group splits into 2 lines which stand opposite each other about 15yds apart (see diagram). The drill starts with 1 player running the ball across to the opposite line. The drill continues in this fashion. Be on the balls of your feet ready to receive the ball Positive 1 st touch quickly accelerate and attack the space Head up Use laces to run with ball, Keeping ball about 1yd ahead Run in a straight line Pass with laces Players meet in the middle to create crossover runs Players make a diagonal pass in the middle to the other group Player who passes the ball runs around a cone and chases the player running with the ball and attempts to tag them before they pass the ball off to the next player Running with the Ball: Circle Drill Players form a large circle, use to balls to start. Players simply run with the ball towards a player on the outside of the circle and switch places. The drill continues in this fashion. Be on the balls of your feet ready to receive the ball Positive 1 st touch quickly accelerate, attack the space and move quickly across the circle Head up observe players, and avoid collisions Use laces to run with ball, Keeping ball about 1yd ahead Pass with laces Players meet in the middle to create crossover runs

40 Skill Practices Running with the Ball: 4v1 Set up 2 grids each 10x15yds with a 10yd gap separating the 2 grids (see diagram). Place 4 attackers and 1 defender in one grid and 3 attackers and 1 defender in the other grid, the 4 attackers start with the ball creating a 4v1 situation. After making 4 passes one player can run the ball across to the other grid. If the defender wins the ball they attempt to pass the ball to the other defender inside the middle zone. Spread out to create space Timing, weight and accuracy of the pass Communication Angles of support Look for opportunities to run the ball to the other grid Positive 1 st touch quickly accelerate and attack space Head up observe players and space in the other grid Use correct technique when running with the ball Quality of support for player running with the ball Pass with laces Increase number of passes Introduce an extra defender creating a 4v2 Running with the ball: 5v2 Split Run Set up a 20x20yd grid, Players play 5v2 inside the grid the attackers score a point if they manage to split the 2 defenders by running the ball through them. If the defenders win the ball they must attempt to make one pass to stop the play. Switch defenders after the attackers have scored 2 points or the defenders successfully win the ball. Spread out to create space Timing, weight and accuracy of the pass Communication Angles of support Look for opportunities to run the ball between the 2 defenders Positive 1 st touch quickly accelerate and attack space Head up Use correct technique when running with the ball Quality of support for player running with the ball Pass with laces

41 Shooting Techniques

42 Warm Up Warm Up: Volley and Move Set up a 15x15yd grid. Split players into pairs with one ball between two, One player positions themselves on the perimeter of the grid with the ball and the other stands inside the grid. Players on the inside move around looking to receive a ball from the players on the outside and perform the following Volley techniques: Inside foot volley Instep volley Outside foot volley Half Volley Receive on thigh and volley Receive on chest and volley Header Players switch after 30sec. Be on the balls of your feet, body position side on Watch the ball onto volley surface Use correct volley technique, Head and knee over ball, keep foot firm ankle locked Communication Head up observe space and players.

43 Shooting: Ajax Youth Shooting Drill Technique Practices Using the penalty area mark out a hexagon using cones with the goal being one of the side (see diagram). All players have a ball and form 2 equal lines by each goal post (see diagram). The 1 st player from one line dribbles towards the 1 st cone and then touches the ball past the cone on the inside and runs around the outside. The player then continues towards the 2 nd cone and again touches the ball past the cone on the inside and runs around the outside and shoots on goal. The 1 st player in the next line then performs the exercise. Players switch lines Quality touch past the 2 nd cone to set up shooting angle Angle of approach Head up observe keeper Correct positioning of non kicking foot Strike through the centre of the ball Accuracy before power using inside or instep Head and knee over ball, keep foot firm ankle locked. Follow through Shooting: Shooting Drill 1 Players form 4 equal lines, 2 beside each post and another 2 opposite on the edge of the penalty area (see diagram). The 1 st player from one of the 2 lines beside the goal passes to the player in the opposite line, who then controls the ball and then shoots on goal. The drill continues in this fashion with players switching lines. Be on your toes ready to receive the ball to set up shooting angle Head up observe keeper Correct positioning of non kicking foot Strike through the centre of the ball Accuracy before power using inside or instep Head and knee over ball, keep foot firm ankle locked. Follow through Shoot 1 st time Player passing follows pass to apply pressure Diagonal pass to the striker across the goal

44 Shooting: Shooting Drill 2 Players organise themselves as in previous drill. Players either side of the goal pass the ball diagonally across the goal, the player receiving the ball sets the ball for the 1 st player in the line across for them who then shoots (see diagram). Be on your toes ready to receive the ball Quality pass to set up shooting angle Head up observe keeper Correct positioning of non kicking foot Strike through the centre of the ball Accuracy before power using inside or instep Head and knee over ball, keep foot firm ankle locked. Follow through Player passing follows pass to apply pressure Shooting: Feint and Shoot 2 groups of players are lined up just outside the penalty area opposite cones shaped as an arrow head to create a yellow and a red gate. Each player in turn dribbles towards the red gate and then changes direction to go through the yellow gate before shooting on goal Quality of disguise through the cones Quality touch through the yellow gate to set up shooting angle Head up observe keeper Correct positioning of non kicking foot Strike through the centre of the ball Accuracy before power using inside or instep Head and knee over ball, keep foot firm ankle locked. Follow through Introduce a passive defender who attempts to block the gates

45 Shooting: Turn and Shoot Split players into 2 groups, one player from each group stands by 1 of the 2 cones situated on the top of the penalty box with the other players forming a line opposite (see diagram). The player standing by the cone checks off the cone to receive a ball from a player in the line. On receiving the ball the player turns and shoots Quality Checking movement Turn using inside or outside of foot to set up shooting angle Head up observe keeper Correct positioning of non kicking foot Strike through the centre of the ball Accuracy before power using inside or instep Head and knee over ball, keep foot firm ankle locked. Follow through Shooting: Set up and follow up Player passing to striker follows up shot Introduce a passive defender to apply pressure on the striker Split players into 2 groups, one player from each group stands by 1 of the 2 cones situated on the top of the penalty box with the other players forming a line opposite (see diagram). The player standing by the cone checks off the cone to receive a ball from a player in the line. On receiving the ball the player sets the ball back for the player to shoot. After laying the ball off, the player on the cone follows up the shot for any rebounds. Quality Checking movement to set up shooting angle Head up observe keeper Correct positioning of non kicking foot Strike through the centre of the ball Accuracy before power using inside or instep Head and knee over ball, keep foot firm ankle locked. Follow through Timing and quality of run to follow up shot

46 Shooting: Charlton Triangle Mark out a triangle with cones just outside the penalty box, split players into 3 groups with a group at each cone (see diagram). Players pass the ball as shown in the diagram with the last player in the sequence shooting on goal. Quality passing and final pass to set up shooting angle Head up observe keeper Correct positioning of non kicking foot Strike through the centre of the ball Accuracy before power using inside or instep Head and knee over ball, keep foot firm ankle locked. Follow through Switch the direction of passing Shooting: Charlton Miss a Man Mark out 2 lines with 4 cones in each line, and have a player stand by each cone (see Diagram). Players pass the ball as shown in the diagram with the last player in the sequence shooting on goal. Quality passing and final pass to set up shooting angle Angles of support Head up observe keeper Correct positioning of non kicking foot Strike through the centre of the ball Accuracy before power using inside or instep Head and knee over ball, keep foot firm ankle locked. Follow through

47 Volley: Basic Volley Drill Set up a series of 3x5yd grids. Split players into pairs with one ball between two. One player serves the other player who performs the following volley techniques: Inside foot volley Instep volley Outside foot volley Half Volley Receive on thigh and volley Receive on chest and volley Header Players switch after 30sec Be on the balls of your feet Body position side on Watch the ball onto volley surface Use correct volley technique, Head and knee over ball, keep foot firm ankle locked Introduce lateral movement Player touches ball after each volley Volley: Serve and Volley 2 groups of players are lined up just outside the penalty area with a ball each (see diagram). Players take it in turns to serve the ball to themselves perform a volley or half volley on goal. Be on the balls of your feet Body position side on Quality of service to set up volley Head up observe keeper Watch the ball onto Instep Use correct volley technique, Head and knee over ball, keep foot firm ankle locked

48 Volley: Serve and Volley 2 2 groups of players are lined up just outside the penalty area with 2 servers placed either side of the goal (see diagram). Players take it in turns to receive a ball from the servers and perform a side foot volley on goal. Be on the balls of your feet Body position side on Quality of service to set up volley Head up observe keeper Watch the ball onto Inside foot Use correct volley technique, Head and knee over ball, keep foot firm ankle locked Volley and Headers: Serve and Volley 3 2 groups of players are lined up just outside the penalty area with a ball each. 2 servers are placed either side of the goal (see diagram). Players take it in turns serve the ball to them selves and perform a volley, they then receive a ball from on of the servers and perform side volley and then receive a ball off the other server for a header. Be on the balls of your feet Body position side on Quality of service to set up volley Head up observe keeper Watch the ball onto volley surface Use correct volley technique, Head and knee over ball, keep foot firm ankle locked Use correct heading technique

49 Heading: Attacking Header Set up a series of 3x5yd grids. Split players into pairs with one ball between two. One player serves the other player who attempts to head the ball between their partner s legs. Players switch after 30sec and attempt to beat partners score Be on the balls of your feet Body position side on (Like a boxer) Head the top half of the ball firmly with forehead Head ball downwards towards players legs Generate power by arching the back and bringing top half of the body forward to attack the ball Keep neck firm as contact is made Heading: Defensive Header Set up a series of 3x5yd grids. Split players into pairs with one ball between two. One player serves the other player who attempts to head the ball over their partners head Players switch after 30sec and attempt to beat partners score Be on the balls of your feet Body position side on (Like a boxer) Head the bottom half of the ball firmly with forehead Focus on getting good height and distance Generate power by arching the back and bringing top half of the body forward to attack the ball Keep neck firm as contact is made Introduce a passive defender to put pressure on the player heading the ball

50 Heading: Ladder Game Set up a series of 5x5yd grids with two 4yd goals (see Diagram). Split players into pairs with one ball between two. Players serve the ball to themselves and attempt to score past their partner. Each game lasts 1 min winning player moves up the ladder. Be on the balls of your feet Body position side on (Like a boxer) Head the top half of the ball firmly with forehead Head downwards towards the corners Generate power by arching the back and bringing top half of the body forward to attack the ball Keep neck firm as contact is made Attempt to head ball quickly before keeper can get ready

51 Skill Practices Shooting: 2v2 Shooting inside the penalty box Split players into 2 teams, the defending team form 2 lines either side of the goal, and the attacking team stand opposite to form 2 lines on the edge of the penalty box (see diagram). The defenders start the drill by passing the ball to one of the attackers. Players play a 2v2, the attackers try to score while the defenders look to win possession and pass to one of the attackers waiting in line on the edge of the penalty area. Be on your toes ready to receive the ball Take shooting opportunity if the space is available Quality of support and movement off the ball Follow up shots for possible rebounds Set a time limit for the attackers to score Shooting: 4v2 Possession to attack or quick counter attack Mark out a 40x25yd field with a small 8x8yd field in the middle. Players play a 4v2 in the centre grid with the condition, if the attackers make 8 successful passes 2 attackers can break out of the grid and shoot on one of the 2 goals. The same applies if the defenders win the ball. After 8 passes be positive and attack space outside the grid Head up observe keeper Shot selection, Low drive, swerve, chip or take keeper on 1v1 Make a decision and stick to it Quality of support by other player Follow up shots for possible rebounds Defenders on winning the ball be positive and quickly attack space outside the grid 1 player from the other team can leave the grid and defend creating a 2v1 2 players from the other team can leave the grid creating a 2v2

52 Volley: Throw Volley Catch 2v2 Mark out a 20x20yd grid with 2 small goals. Players play a 2v2 game with the condition players must throw the ball for a player to volley and from a volley players can catch. The aim is to volley the ball into the keepers hands. Spread out to create space Look to volley ball into keepers hands as soon as space is available Quality of support and movement off the ball Use correct volley technique Play throw, head, catch Heading: 2v2 four goal game Mark out a 15x15yd grid with 4 small goals on each side. Players play a 2v2 and attempt to score with a header into either of their opponents goal. Play starts by a player throwing the ball to their partner to head at goal or head back to the servers head. Defending players remain on the goal lines and act as goalkeepers. Once possession is gained the player with the ball immediately serves their partner. Play continues in this fashion. Be on the balls of your feet Move into line with the ball as it travels Head the top half of the ball firmly with forehead Head downwards towards the corners Generate power by arching the back and bringing top half of the body forward to attack the ball Keep neck firm as contact is made On regaining possession head ball quickly before keeper can get ready

53 Shooting: 4v4 shooting game Small Sided Conditioned Games Set up an octagon shaped field 30yds in length (se diagram). Players play a 4v4 game and are encouraged to shoot at every opportunity. Play always starts with the keeper. Spread out to create space Take shooting opportunity when space is available Quality of shot selection, accuracy and technique Quality of support and movement off the ball by other players Follow up shots for possible rebounds Shooting: Dutch 4v4 Shooting Game Set up an 30 x20yd field, Players play a 4v4 game with 4 target players (see Diagram) the ball must be passed into a target player who passes the ball back in to score. Play starts with the keeper. Spread out to create space Take opportunity to pass to target players when space is available. Quality of runs to support target player to create goal scoring opportunities Quality of shot selection, accuracy and technique Quality of support and movement off the ball by other players Follow up shots for possible rebounds Limit target players to 1 touch Limit players to 1 touch to score

54 Shooting: Long Range Shooting Set up an 30 x20yd field, split the field in half with 2 attackers and 4 defenders in each half. Players are not allowed to cross the halfway line. The goalkeeper can only distribute to the back four players and shots must be taken from this half to create long range shots. Play always starts form the keeper. Spread out to create space Take shooting opportunity when space is available Quality of shot selection, accuracy and technique For power: body position, head still, high front arm, transfer body weight Quality of support and movement off the ball by other players Strikers be alert and Follow up shots for possible rebounds Ball must be passed to one of the strikers to set up shot Crossing and Finishing: Wingers Game Set up a 40 x30yd field with 2 wide channels marked by cones. Players play a 4v4 game with 1 target player on each wing (see Diagram). Goals can only be scored from a cross and 2 points are given if the goal is scored by a header or a volley. Play always starts from the keeper Spread out to create space Take opportunity to pass to wingers when space is available Timing and quality of runs into the box Cross selection and quality Quality of support and movement off the ball by other players Introduce 2 target players on each wing Limit wingers to 2 touches A wall pass must be performed by one of the wingers before a cross can be played Outfield player must overlap a winger and provide the cross

55 Defending

56 Warm Up Warm Up: Individual Defending in a grid Set up a 15x15yd grid each player with a ball and perform the Basic Dribble Warm up. After 5mins select 3 or 4 players to act a passive defenders who put pressure players with the ball attempting to force them into certain areas of the grid without winning the ball. Switch defenders after 30 sec. Be on the balls of your feet Close down players on the ball and force them in one direction, or prevent them from turning Adopt a side body position and sit down Eyes on the ball If defenders win the ball cleanly the attacking player becomes the defender

57 Technique Practices Individual defending: Classic Jockey Drill Set up a series of 20x5yd grids, split players into pairs with 1 ball between each pair. One player dribbles in a straight line while the other jockeys. On reaching the end line players switch roles Be on the balls of your feet Adopt a side body position and sit down Front foot in line with ball Maintain a good distance from the attacker Eyes on the ball Dribbling player can change the direction of the dribble using feints Defender passes the ball into the attacker from the end line and closes down attacker Defending: Wenger Defending in 2 s Set up a series of 15x10yd grids, split players into 2 groups and have them line up as shown in the diagram. On the coaches command players move towards the 1 st 2 cones pretending they are 2 attacking players and adopt a good defensive position. The drill continues with players moving in the sequence demonstrated in the diagram 1 st defender pressures Move into line and down the line Adopt a side on body position and sit down Force play inside towards 2 nd defender 2 nd defender should provide diagonal support and adopt a position so that both cones are visible Both defenders should work as a unit Have players imagine the ball has been passed across to the other player see how they react Introduce another line of cones and work on defending in 3 s

58 Defending: 2v2 Passive Play Set up a series of 15x15yd grids, split players into groups of 4 with 1 ball between each group. 2 attacking players pass the ball between each other while the 2 defending players work as a team to maintain a good defensive position (See Diagram) Players switch roles after 1 min 1 st defender pressures Move into line and down the line Adopt a side on body position and sit down Force play inside towards 2 nd defender 2 nd defender should provide diagonal support and adopt a position so that both players and ball are visible Both defenders should work as a unit and react to the balls movement Communication Defending: 4v4 Passive Play Same as previous drill, join 2 grids to create a 4 v4 1 st defender pressures Move into line and down the line Adopt a side on body position and sit down Force play inside towards second defender when the ball is with the outside player 2 nd defender supports 3 rd and 4 th defender should provide good cover and balance Defenders should work as a unit and react to the balls movement Communication

59 Skill Practices Individual Defending: 1v1 Recovery Runs 1 Set up a 20x10yd grid with 2 small goals and organise players as shown in the diagram. The coach plays the ball into the path of one of the 1 st players in one of the lines, the 1 st player in the line parallel makes a recovery run to prevent the attacker from dribbling the ball through the goal on the opposite side. Be on the ball of your feet Angle and speed of recovery run Once recovered adopt a side on body position and sit down Force play away from goal Eyes on the ball Can you win the ball Individual Defending: 1v1 Recovery Runs 2 As in previous drill, except a defender is placed 2yds behind the attacker (see diagram). Be on the ball of your feet Angle and speed of recovery run Once recovered adopt a side on body position and sit down Force play away from goal Eyes on the ball Can you win the ball

60 Individual Defending: 4v1 Prevent forward pass Set up a 15x5yd grid with 2 cones to mark the centre line. Players play a 4v1 with the defender restricted to the centre line and attempts to intercepts passes through to the players on the opposite side of the grid. Attackers are restricted to the back of the grid and can only pass the ball on the ground Be on the ball of your feet adopt a low body position Move into line Concentrate and react quickly to intercept forward pass Defending: 4v2 Prevent forward pass Set up a 20x10yd grid with 2 cones to mark the centre line. Players play a 4v2 with the restriction that a defending player must always be situated on the centre line, 1 defender can put pressure on the ball but is not allowed to tackle the ball. Attackers attempt to play the ball to the players on the opposite side while the defenders attempt to intercept the pass. Attackers are restricted to the back of the grid and can only pass the ball on the ground 1 st defender pressures Move into line and down the line Adopt a side on body position and sit down Force play inside towards 2 nd defender 2 nd defender should provide diagonal support and adopt a position to prevent forward pass Both defenders should work as a unit and react to the balls movement Concentrate and react quickly to intercept forward pass Communication Introduce an extra attacker and defender to create a 6v3 situation

61 Defending: 2v2 dribble over end line Set up a 20x20ydgrid, organise players as shown in the diagram. Play starts by the defenders passing into the attackers. Players play a 2v2 with and attempt to dribble the ball across the end line. 1 st defender pressures Move into line and down the line Adopt a side on body position and sit down Force play inside towards 2 nd defender 2 nd defender should provide diagonal support and adopt a position so that both players and ball are visible Both defenders should work as a unit and react to the balls movement communication Can you win the ball On winning the ball be positive and attack the end line Defending: 3v3 dribble over end line Mark out a 30x20yd grid same as previous drill except players play 3v3 1 st defender pressures Move into line and down the line Adopt a side on body position and sit down Force play inside towards second defender when the ball is with the outside player 2 nd defender Supports 3 rd should provide good cover and balance Defenders should work as a unit and react to the balls movement Communication Can you win the ball On winning the ball be positive and attack the end line

62 Small Sided Conditioned Games Delay Defending: 4v4 Defend in own half Mark out a 30x20yd field with a centre line marked by cones. Players play a 4v4 game with the condition that on loosing possession all players must move back to their own half 1 st defender pressures 2 nd defender Supports Other defenders provide cover and balance Quality of recovery runs to get back behind the ball Stay compact and work as a unit Double team on the wings Communication On gaining possession attempt to break quickly on the counter attack Pressure Defending: 4v4 Pressure, Pressure, Pressure Mark out a 30x20yd field with a centre line marked by cones. Players play a 4v4 game with the condition that all players must be in opponents half to score 1 st defender pressures 2 nd defender Supports Other defenders provide cover and balance Stay compact and work as a unit Apply pressure at all times Double team on the wings Keeper act as a sweeper Communication On gaining possession attempt to score quickly