Practice 2: 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 age, ability and number of your players. Set up with a full-size goal at one end, and two mini goals at the other end, offset to the sides. Start with four attackers and three defenders, plus the goalkeeper.

HOW TO play

The Reds start by passing into their striker’s feet. Three Reds then join the attack to score. The Blues try to win the ball and connect one pass, before scoring in either of the mini goals. This second phase also applies if the Reds lose the ball out of play, in which case the coach quickly passes a new ball to the goalkeeper to start an attack.

progressions & ADAPTATIONS

You can change the number of passes the defenders need to make before scoring in the small goals, giving the attackers more chance to adopt a successful high press in transition.

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. Get into a tackle. Force a mistake or rushed decision.
• Together – Press as a unit. If one player is bypassed, the next is ready to step in.