Football: Defensive Unit Work

High Intensity drill

This a 6 vs 2 invasion game. Mark out three areas in a line (each box 15m x 25m) using cones (You can adjust the area based on the level of the players and if it is too easy for the Attackers or Defenders).

Start with 6 players in each of the two end areas and 4 in the middle area.

The aim of this drill is for the 6 players in each end to keep possession of the ball, with those in the middle taking turns to try and win the ball. Players in the end zone have 2 touches maximum or a point goes to the Defenders.

To start, a Feeder will throw the ball into one of the ends. Two Defenders will then move into the relevant end and chase down passes in an effort to win the ball back in a 6 vs 2 game.

The 6 players will be passing the ball amongst themselves. Once they have completed 6 successful passes then they can pass to the opposite end. When this happens, the players left in the middle will enter that end and do the same thing.

The Defenders work for 3 minutes then rotate the playing positions around.

Play 2 v 2 in the area furthest from goal and 2 v 3 in the defensive area around the goal. Make 2 small goals on the end line for the defense to play out through.

The attacking team (gold) in the area furthest from the goal, combine to play the ball into the two attackers in the opposite area. The two defenders in the area furthest from the goal attempt to intercept passes as they are played through. The three defenders in the defensive area mu st pressure the ball, marking tightly when close to the ball or goal. Defenders from the area furthest from the goal may enter into the defensive area to support the three defenders and to serve as midfield players for clearances from the back. If defenders intercept the ball, they should attempt to play the ball through either of the small goals at the bottom of the diagram.

Set up with 2 cones as shown with 2 players at each end and 1 ball.

Player with the ball passes the ball across and then quickly closes their pass down. Once they get close they take a defensive stance and move backwards as the player on the ball dribbles forward.

Once they get halfway the player defending quickly retreats and then receives the pass before changing roles.

6 vs 6 game with 2 Floaters (who can play for whichever team has the ball).

Set up an area the size of one half of the pitch. In each corner and in the middle, position 2 cones to make 5 mini goals.

Also have 6 players stood around the outside of the area, who the ball can be passed to and from.

After the first game, switch one of the teams out and have the outside 6 come in and form a team. Rotate round like this so they each play each other.

Play 3 mins each of attacking, 3 times (9 mins in total each, 27 mins overall).