Exercise Objectives: This practice is designed to improve the player’s one on one defending skills in and around the penalty area.
Field Preparation Area 10 x 20 yards Small Groups 1 Ball Cones or Flag poles
Coaching Pointers:
This practice is designed to improve the player’s one on one defending skills in and around the penalty area.
One defending group is positioned at the junction of the six-yard box and the end line. The attacking group is
placed on the sideline approximately 25 yards from the corner flag.
The practice starts when the first defender passes the ball to the first attacker. The defender must follow their pass and prevent the attacker from scoring a goal. A goal is also awarded each time the defender can successfully dispossess the attacker. After the play is completed, both players return to their starting positions. The next players in line repeat the practice. Players should alternate the roles after frequently.
The speed of the practice should be increased gradually.
The coach should emphasize the following coaching points:
Pass the ball firmly to the attacking player’s feet.
Gain as much ground as possible as the ball is traveling.
Keep between the ball and the goal.
Slow down on the last 2 yards. Get low with knees bent.
Adopt a “side on” position.
Make the direction of the play predictable (away from the goal).
Timing of the tackle is important, wait for the forward to make his move.
Quality tackling is as much an attitude as it is technique.
Players must develop an aggressive and savvy attitude towards winning the ball.
