
Take out a back 4. Coach either side of the penalty area ready to play in a cross. A Coach also stands behind the balls to choose one. Defenders start by running in and out of the cones, the coach then runs to a ball and the player must come and close it down whilst the defence keeps its shape. Once the ball has been touched - one of the coaches plays in a cross and defense must clear it. If use a holding midfielder - add an extra one.
Keeping defensive shape. Working with holding midfielders. Covering
This practice has no coaching points
This practice has no progressions
in more ways than one
Set pieces account for roughly a third of all goals in football, yet many coaches spend surprisingly little time coaching defensive organisation at corners and free kicks. This article compares zonal and man marking systems, explores hybrid approaches, and provides a practical session structure for building set piece resilience into your team.
A player's first touch determines everything that follows: whether they can play forward, turn, or simply retain the ball. This article explores why training first touch in isolation is not enough, and how to design sessions that develop this critical skill under realistic game pressure.
The coaching methodology revolution sweeping grassroots football - and how to implement it at your club this season.