WORK ON TEAM POSSESSION SKILLS WITH INCREASING DEFENSIVE PRESSURE
INDIVIDUAL PASSING AND RECEIVING SKILLS UNDER PRESSURE
PLAYERS
10+ PLAYERS
SPACE
25m x 25m
EQUIPMENT
10+ BALLS, 1+ CONES
EXPLANATION:
X’s begin with 5 players in possession zone, spread out to use full space, and make 4 consecutive passes with no defensive pressure (5 vs 0)
X’s make 4 passes, first defender (O) enters the zone. X’s continue to pass (5 vs 1), with the goal of making another 4 consecutive passes, while O tries to intercept/tackle.
If X’s are successful again, O’s send a second player in to defend (5 vs 2). Continue this pattern if X’s continue to keep possession.
X’s get 1 point for each set of 4 passes they can connect consecutively. If possible, they continue until numbers are even, and then continue from there if X’s can still maintain possession.
If O’s win possession of the ball, X’s clear out of the zone to the sideline, and all 5 O’s enter the zone. O’s now become the team with possession, and work to connect 4 consecutive passes (5 vs 0). A defender (X) then enters the zone (5 vs1), etc...
COACHING POINTS:
The main focus of this drill is to show how good off-ball movement can make team possession simple. Create passing options with balance in the possession zone, focusing on WIDTH, DEPTH, and POCKET SPACE in relation to ball position.
Ball Carrier: Ball position should be such that the ball carrier can easily scan up to see defenders and passing options. Ball is under control in front of body in a position to pass to multiple options. Avoid closing off one side of zone by holding ball on side of body, unless protecting the ball under pressure.
Defending Team: Communication is important between defenders. Defender furthest from the ball should direct the defender(s) in front which way to direct the play (eg “Force left, force right”, etc)
EVALUATION:
Off-ball players should consistently look/scan away from the ball-carrier and re-position/move accordingly into open receiving position. Watch how often a player looks away from ball carrier.
Receiving player should move the ball with first touch into space (away from defender’s pressure) to make pass to open teammate. Ball should not be stopped on reception, unless pass is bouncing or player is clearly in open space.
Teams should see improvement in ability to maintain possession, and consistently continue passing until 2+ defenders are in play.
PROGRESSION:
LTT: This drill works well with younger ages, (Learn to Train and Train to Train levels) allowing the team to have some success passing the ball before a defender steps in.
