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LOGINPractice: Stopping the attacker
A simple and continuous game to improve players in 1v1 situations and develop their tackling
WHY USE IT
In the modern game, it is crucial that players can defend 1v1 against a range of opponents. Matches at all levels are made up of a series of 1v1 situations, so it is important that adequate time is spent working on individual technique in training.
SET UP
Set up an area of 10x10 yards. We are using seven players in this session. You will need balls and cones.
HOW TO PLAY
This is a continuous 1v1 game in which attackers have to dribble across the area and get past a defender. Start with no tackling, just jockeying (side-to-side movements to force play) or positional movements to force the attacker out of the area. Add tackling to progress the session as it develops.
Coaching points
Winning the ball back in 1v1 situations protects your team from attackers bursting through on goal. This is obviously a desirable situation for your team and will set up counter-attacking opportunities.
1. The attackers line up at both ends of the area with one defender in the middle
2. An attacker tries to dribble across the square
Related Files
3. The defender must use techniques like jockeying to force the attacker out of the playing area
4. If the defender is successful, they are rewarded by swapping places with the attacker
5. Now the defender can use tackling to win the ball
Michael Beale
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Subscriber Testimonials
Gerald Kearney, Downtown Las Vegas Soccer Club
Paul Butler, Florida, USA
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Coaches Testimonials
Gerald Kearney, Downtown Las Vegas Soccer Club
Paul Butler, Florida, USA
Rick Shields, Springboro, USA
Tony Green, Pierrefonds Titans, Quebec, Canada
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Small-sided games
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