Small-sided game: 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 goal at each end. Divide players into two teams of five, each with a goalkeeper.

HOW TO play

Play a normal small-sided game. Encourage defenders to delay attacks by forcing the play backwards, closing space to prevent running with the ball, and dropping back into a compact shape, while making play predictable by forcing attackers in one direction.

progressions

Build the game up to 6v6, 7v7 and so on.

COACHING POINTS

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

• Ensure good distances between defenders to prevent through balls

• Reading the game, e.g. attacker’s leg comes back, prepare to press the next pass

• Be aggressive in the press and press as a collective

• Scan for opposition movement, make sure you can see both the ball and the runners

• Position body to block passing lanes