2 vs 3 Protect the Defence

DESCRIPTION

3 Attackers, 2 Defenders and 1 Goalkeeper.

Split the play area in half with cones.

1v1 in the midfield area.

2 Attackers v 1 Defender in the defensive area.

Players may not cross the cones.

Attacker starts with ball, and tries to beat defender.

Midfield Defender must pressurize Attacker, forcing him wide if possible, and try not to allow Attacker to run or pass through centre.

Simultaneously the Defender in the defensive area must watch the movement of the Attackers, constantly closing down the angles and passing options for the Attackers.

Once the ball has been played the midfeld Defender may cross the cones to help defend.

COACHING POINTS

The Defender in the midfield area must pressurise the Attacker without "diving in".

Knees bent, ready to shut down any attempt by Attacker to drive towards the centre of the pitch.

Body position is very important.

Demonstrate how to adjust body position when moving out towards the Attacker, and the correct sideways body position when protecting a run towards goal from the flank.

Always tackle with the leading foot.

How to slide tackle safely, studs down.

The Defender in the defensive area should be constantly assessing the potential threat to the centre of the goal, closing down the option for a pass. Movement should be sideways, no further than the edges of the goal area and only slightly forwards or backwards.

If done properly the ball should end up being played mostly down the flanks. At this point the Defender should move to shut down the cross. Again emphasise approaching the Attacker quickly without over-committing, and a knees slightly bent, side on stance (also prevents ball through the legs).