Practice 90

Area – Set up three (or four) 10 x 20 grids. Each grid has a goal at each end. The coach has all the soccer balls. Players are placed at both sides of their goal.

Part 1 is 1v1 and is played in one grid.

1. The coach serves in a ball to any player. That player plays a 1v1 against the player diagonally opposite.

2. The object is to score on the opposite goal.

Coaching points:

Force the play one way

Take a good defensive stance

Encourage defenders to make the tackle.

Variation - Part 2

Half of the players from each team move to the next grid.

Part 2 is 2v2 and is played in two grids.

Players must stay in their own grid.

1. The coach serves in a ball to any player. That player and their team mate in the opposite grid enter their playing area. Two defenders enter their playing area also.

2. Players can pass to each other to try and move the defenders but they must stay in their own playing area.

3. A goal can be scored on either goal. The object of the exercise is to teach the defender who is not adding pressure, to cover their goal

Variation:

Part 3 - Now move to the third grid and play 3 v 3. Watch how the players will offer instant cover and balance.

Coaching points:

Force the play one way

Take a good defensive stance

Encourage defenders to make the tackle.

Communication