Red defends blue. The blue player must try and beat the red defenders and reach one of the blue cones, with the ball still under control.
Red player 2 role is to cover the other defender. Whenever either red player gets in possession, the other red must find space so as to create a passing option.
First defender: Good defensive stance, knees bent, on their toes and trying to force the player wide.
Engage the player on the ball but force him to go to your 'covered' side
Covering defender: Close off the direct line to the nearest blue cone. Keep the attacker in your line of sight and don't get caught right behind your first defender.
in more ways than one
in more ways than one
Under FutureFit, your Under-9s stay at 5v5, your Under-11s stay at 7v7 and your Under-13s stay at 9v9. Same pitch, same numbers, one more year. Here is how to make sure that year feels like a step forward rather than a repeat.
Most 1v1s are lost in the first second, when the defender rushes in and dives. Teach your players to slow the attacker down, take away the dangerous option and pick the right moment, and they will win far more of them.
The FA's FutureFit framework lands this season, bringing a 3v3 entry format at Under-7s. Here is what actually changes on a Saturday morning, and how to coach it well.