The second defender

WHY USE IT

The main focus is on the defender not closing down the ball, the second defender. They will develop an understanding of where they need to be to cover their team-mate, the first defender.

SET UP

Set out a rectangular area relative to the age, ability and number of your players. Split it in half to provide the defenders with a guide. Place a small goal at both ends of the area. Split players into three pairs, with a pair at each end of the pitch. One pair are attackers, another are defenders. The final pair are along the sides of the pitch and act as servers and support players.

HOW TO PLAY

A server plays a pass into one of the attackers, who enters the pitch with their partner and attempts to score in the small goal. At the same time, the two defenders enter the pitch and look to win the ball. If they do, they attack the opposite small goal. The servers can be used by the attackers to keep the ball but they play two-touch and can only pass backwards.

COACHING POINTS

• Second defender: What is the best distance and angle for you to be at? How can you communicate with the first defender?
• First defender: How can you swap to second defender when needed?