Defending Drills – Middle Target Zones
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DESCRIPTION
• each team defends and attacks a goal with goalie
• players stay in their designated half
• teams must pass to neutral player in target zone
• neutral player then moves into attacking zone to create numbers-up situation (4v3) as shown
• switch roles regularly
VARIATION
• vary number of neutal players and target zones
• attacking players only have two touches
• adjust spacing depending on the age and ability of the group
COACHING POINTS
• quick finish
• communication
• first touch
• vision
• constant movement
• angles of support to receive ball
Defending Drills – Make it, Take it!
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DESCRIPTION
• each team defends and attacks one goal
• on coach’s command direction of play changes (teams now attack the goal they were defending)
VARIATION
• players must take a minimum of three touches
• direction of play changes with each goal scored
• adjust spacing depending on the age and ability of the group if necessary
COACHING POINTS
Attacking:
• quick transitions
• set up defender
• angle, distance and timing of support
• decision making
• verbal and visual communication
• create space for others
• attack space behind defense
Defending:
• positioning to provide cover and balance
• intercept passes
• squeeze toward center
• track players
• visual and verbal communication
