By Lawrence Fine, Author of the FineSoccer Coaching Bible.
Welcome to the FineSoccer Drills Newsletter. Today’s featured activity works on playing the ball out of pressure in order to go forward.
Start with a 20 x 10 grid with two attacking players and one defending player. One of the attacking players starts with the ball in the middle of the grid with his back to the defender. The other attacker is further back from the end line they are attacking.
The attacking players are trying to dribble the ball across the end line behind the defender. In games, players sometimes have a tendency to try to turn into a defender when it’s not a good decision. In this case, let’s assume the players are in the back quarter of the field so if they lose possession it’s giving up an immediate goal scoring opportunity.
If the player can find a way to turn and beat the player he can do that.
However, in most cases it will be a better decision to play the ball back to his supporting player.
The mistake that is frequently made at this point is for the player who just made the pass to stop and watch.
Instead, the player should go wide to offer an option.
The player with the ball then can dribble at the defender.
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When the defender steps forward the player with the ball can play a simple ball to the runner.
There is no concern with offsides, in this activity, because we are recreating a situation in the back quarter of the field.
Have each player take turns in each role so they can experience their options.
Have a great day!
Lawrence
By Lawrence Fine, Author of the FineSoccer Coaching Bible.
