Practice 1: Attacking and defending transitions

Why use it

This practice simulates constant transitions using 1v1 and 2v1 situations.

Set up

Mark out an area relative to the age, ability and number of your players. Place a mini-goal at each end and divide players into two equal groups. Each group should then be split into two further groups, to form an ‘A’ and ‘B’ group for each team. The ‘As’ for each team start on the halfway line opposite each other. The ‘Bs’ for each team start behind the goal at opposite ends of the pitch.

How to play

Blue player A dribbles towards Yellow player B and stops the ball. They then recover around the goal to become the second defender. Yellow player B dribbles towards goal and tries to beat Blue player A in a 1v1. The game continues on a rotational basis from there.

Progressions/adaptations

You can adapt the distance the recovering defender has to run to make it easier or harder. You can include a shooting zone which the attacker has to reach before taking a shot at goal.

Coaching points

• Mentality and reaction to recover (second defender)
• Delay attack (first defender) until play becomes 1v2
• Body position (side on) and footwork (small quick steps)
• Force attacker into dribbling and take away shooting option (allowing second defender time to recover)