Practice 3 of Theme 10: Defensive Pressure is played in a 30 by 20 Yard area, split into 2 halves of 15 by 20. 5 players (positioned as 3 defenders and 2 midfielders) in one group and 5 attacking players in the other, must keep possession in their area, whilst being pressed by 2 defenders. Objective is for the 2 defenders to win possession and score in a mini goal, allowing 2 more defenders to press with same objective. If 10 passes are made, through poor defensive pressure, they can then transfer the ball across, scoring a goal as a result.

• Tech | Apply correct defending technique in pressing phase
• Tactical | Know how to isolate attacking players (weaker foot/passing lines)
• Social | Work closely as a pair, creating 2 v 2 or even 2 v 1s through intelligent pressing

Allowing 3 defenders in at a time, passing team can now transfer the ball after 5 passes.

Challenge quicker regains by allowing the passing team to finish if they play 2 quick one touch passes after the ball is transferred.

• How can you force direction making play predictable?
• How does body shape impact on your ability to press?
• How your pressure change if possession kept for longer periods?