Players to be practice with a partner defensive positioning when 1v1 (bent knees, side on, more than arms length from the attacker). 1 player to dribble from one side to the other in possession then switch in possession. Defender to back track without tackling and practice switching leading foot.
Progression 1
Players can try to make a stab tackle with their leading foot. Keep score.
Progression 2
3 teams on each pitch to play 2v2 tournament. Opportunity to practice closing down an attacker and show defensive positioning. Once a goal is scored, that scoring team retrieve the ball and attack the opposite goal as the team who conceded rotate with the team on the sideline.
-body shape side on
-low centre of gravity
-move on toes
-switch leading foot to manipulate attacker
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.