Practice: Pressing fundamentals

WHY USE IT

This practice allows players to explore pressing both as an individual and in pairs, in a controlled, possession-based activity.

Set-up

Set up an area relative to the age, ability and number of your players, and divide it into two sections. Have four to six players in each half.

HOW TO play

Play the ball into the Reds. One Blue player can enter as a defender. The Reds have to make at least three passes in their area, before they can switch to the Blues for a point. 
If the Blues’ defender wins the ball, they can dribble out of the area or pass it back to the Blue team for a point. Play continues with the Blues in possession and a Red as a defender.

progressions & ADAPTATIONS

Once players have mastered the three passes-and-switch, increase the challenge to a minimum of five passes before the switch. On the third pass, a second defender can join and help to defend.
The second defender is added to create support and develop responsibility, teamwork and communication.

COACHING POINTS

• The defender should get straight out to the ball – the more time they give the attacker, the more space they can take the ball into.
• Can the defender force the attacker to play quickly or force them outside through the use of body positioning?
• The attackers should try to play the ball quickly with limited touches and pass in triangles to force the defender to press around the area.