SECTION G DEFENDING DRILLS - 1v1 in Each Half

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Commentary

Objectives

The objective of this session is to work on the defender's positioning in relation to the striker and to prevent the striker from getting a shot on target.

Setup

Groups of eight players in an area of 40 x 10 yards.

Coaching points

Organise the players as shown in the diagram.   Player 1 passes into the "forward" player 2 watched by player 3 acting as the defender.   Player 2 should attempt to turn and score in the small goal (ie the goal he initially had his back to).   Player 2 can attack the goal as an individual or use the side player 4 to play off.   Note, player 4 must only be allowed a maximum of two touches of the ball or preferably - with the more technically proficient players - just one touch.

Defender player 3 gets tight and tries to stop player 2 turning, player 3 must be aware of the threat of player 2 playing a wall pass with player 4.   If a goal is scored or the defender wins possession, the sequence is repeated with player 8 passing to the designated forward player 5 and player 6 assuming the role of defender.  

Progress to 2v2 making the practice area wider by 10 yards.

Defenders must get tight if the ball is played to the feet of the forward, but not so tight that he is unable to see the ball and can be easily turned.   A good rule of thumb is to be touch tight.

The defender's approach to the attacker should be on the shoulder that is on the open side so that he can keep the attacker in the smallest space.

Defending players must be aware and react to quick movement and be determined.   The first basic principle of defending is to delay the attackers.   Be patient and wait for the right moment to win the ball, constantly trying to deny the forward space and time.