Practice 1: Press in the final third

WHY USE IT

This three-part session works to instil positive player behaviours during pressing moments in the final third.

Set-up

Mark out an area, relative to the number, age and ability of your players, and divide it into four equal sections. Split your players into two equal groups – in this example, we are working with two groups of eight – and then divide one of your groups in half again. That makes our example 8v4.

HOW TO play

Play 8v4 in one of the four sections. The Blues aim to connect five successful passes before transferring the ball to another section. The playing Reds aim to press together to win the ball. If they do so, they can score in any goals. They press for 90 seconds, then switch with the resting group of Reds.

progressions & ADAPTATIONS

• You can adapt the number of players to make it more or less challenging for the pressing team.
• Changing the dimensions of the space will also increase or decrease the level of challenge.

COACHING POINTS

• Scan – Quickly check your surroundings. Know where the ball is, and read cues to anticipate where it’s going next.
• Protect – Stay alert to the space behind us. Deny dangerous outlets.
• Sprint – Close down space fast. Get to the ball carrier with urgency.
• Attack – Apply direct pressure to the player with the ball. Force a mistake or rushed decision.
• Together – Press as a unit. If one player is bypassed, the next is ready to step in.