No Escape

Want to improve 1v1 defending, building up to 2v1 and defending as a unit? Try this fun drill – your session will fly by

THE RULES

The attacking team pass the ball across their zone until one decides to take on a defender 1v1.

The defenders are each restricted to one 8 yard x 8 yard box and can tackle the player with the ball or force them backwards or sideways into another defender’s box.

Once through the defensive line the attackers try to score against the goalkeeper unopposed. If the attacker is tackled they go back and start again.

Only the player with the ball moves beyond the defensive line.

MAIN OBJECTIVES

Improve 1v1 defending, building up to 2v1 and, finally, defending as a unit.

SET UP

Area: 32×32 yards

Players: 9-13 including goalkeeper

Equipment: 20 cones, balls, one goal

WHAT TO CALL OUT

“On guard”
“Work together”

PROGRESSION

Allow one defender to recover into the last zone to apply pressure to the attacker if they get through.

Alternatively, you can allow the second closest defender to enter the box at the risk of releasing the attacker in their own channel. This decision is dependent on the angle and distance and whether or not they can realistically win the ball.

Finally, allow all players to be active but defenders should try to ensure that no more than two are inside any box at once to help teach good covering distances.

HINT

If you only have 7 players reduce the number of channels to 3. The principles of individual and group defending remain the same.

Concentrate on the defensive aspects but remember to praise the attackers too.