Badlands

With the opposition hitting long balls over the 'Badlands', this session teaches defenders how to clear the long ball and attackers how to press to prevent the long ball.

 

 

 

Why use it

This shows teams how the front men can pressure and block long passes. It also shows defenders how to clear them. It is a good game for all round blocking when the opposition use long ball tactics.

 

 

 

Set up

Set up an area of 60x30 yards split into three zones with a middle zone of eight yards - vary sizes depending on ages, but all age groups can play this. We've used 14 players including two goalkeepers. You need bibs, ball, cones and two goals.

 

 

 

How to play

Split your players into two teams of seven, with each team having a goalkeeper, four defenders and two attackers. Players must stay in their zones at all times and no one is allowed into the 'Badlands'. The game starts with the keeper, who bowls the ball out to his defenders. At first, don't allow the attackers to either block or pressure the defenders until they get used to the session. Defenders play balls over the Badlands to their attackers who try to score.

 

 

 

Technique

A good session for all round teamwork when long ball merchants come to town, or when your team is under attack from balls played in from the wing and from free-kicks.