Support the defender - practice 1

WHY USE IT

This practice sees players work on 1v1 defending and attacking, before defensive support is introduced.

SET UP

Set up an end zone at each side of the area. Split the group in two and line them up facing each other. Give all players on one side a ball.

HOW TO PLAY

Attackers dribble towards their opposite defender, attempting to beat them, and cross the line to win a point. If the defender wins the ball, they can counter to dribble across the opposite line to win a point. Progress so if a players scores or concedes a point, they leave their ball and support a team-mate to make a 2v2. Coaches can also remove some balls, with some players becoming floating. They are advised to move around the area until they spot an opportunity to support an attacker or defender. This will result in numerous 1v1s, 2v1s and 2v2s.

COACHING POINTS

Defenders:

• Watch the ball, not feet

• Time your challenge

• Try to win and keep the ball

Attackers:

• Use speed, disguise and changes in direction

• Be brave

Both:

• Identify when to support

• Offer angles of support