Practice 2: Pressing ahead

WHY USE IT

This three-part session teaches players when, where and how to press, and provide cover and balance, when out of possession..

Set-up

Mark out an area relative to the age, ability and number of your players. Place a full-sized goal at one end and a mini-goal at the other. Mark out a halfway line. Divide the players into two teams of three, starting each side of the area. One team also has a goalkeeper, who defends the full-sized goal.

HOW TO play

Play starts with the goalkeeper every time. Teams aim to score, either past the goalkeeper or into the mini goal. They have to be over the halfway line to shoot. The line is also used as an offside line. Teams can switch which direction they are attacking after a set period.

progressions

Progress to 4v4 to work on the whole unit. The game can also be simplified to start as a 2v2.

COACHING POINTS

• Triggers to press: Backwards pass, poor touch, receiving when facing own goal, weak/under-hit pass

   

• Pressing requires initial speed but also ensure deceleration takes place to prevent attackers taking the ball around easily

   

• Arms-length distance between pressing defender and attacker

   

• Ensure good distances between defenders to prevent through-balls