Practice 1: Master the dribble

WHY USE IT

Gives players a chance to develop their ability to beat a player in a 1v1. In this practice, players work on agility, balance and close control.

SET UP

Use a square grid with a number of cones distributed throughout. Players are split into four groups, with each group allocated to one side of the area. Every player has a ball.

HOW TO PLAY

Two players enter the grid and try to dribble to the opposite side of the area without touching any of the cones. On doing so, a player exits and joins the other line. As this happens, the first player enters from that other end and the practice continues in this manner.

Progression: Turn it into a relay race, with the two groups facing each other making one team. The team that dribbles through the area (one player at a time) in the fastest time wins. One second is added to their time every time a player touches a cone.

COACHING POINTS

• Keep the ball under close control, using both feet and all parts of the foot. 
• Use balance and agility to help you move through the cones quickly.