Attack to defence – practice 1
Your team has lost the ball - these practices will help sharpen their reactions to win it back. By Dave Knox MORE
Attack at top speed – practice
WHY USE IT
This three-part session works on developing players’ ability and confidence in running with the ball.
SET UP
Set up a playing area relative to the age and ability of your players. You need two goals and goalkeepers, and two small-sided teams, one starting beside each goal.
HOW TO PLAY
The first player runs with the ball and shoots unopposed. As soon as they have had a shot, a player from the opposite team can run and attack the other goal and the original attacker becomes a recovering defender. The sequence continues. Progress the session to have an additional permanent defender, so attackers are at a 2v1 disadvantage.
COACHING POINTS
- Encourage players to hit their top speed when running with the ball.
- Bootlace touches when running with the ball will allow for natural and full running motion.
- Take big touches away from the defender or take a touch across the defender’s path to get in front and force the defender to slow down or stop, or draw a foul.
1. The first Blue player runs and shoots unopposed
2. As soon as they shoot, the first Red player can attack the opposite goal and the Blue player recovers as a defender
3. Progress to add a permanent defender so attackers are outnumbered 2v1
