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Defensive Shift and Cover Drill

Enhance defenders' ability to shift, cover, and make play predictable.

Defending11-129-10group6 players minimumstarstarstarstarstar4.3 (43)
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Equipment, Setup & Instructions
Equipment
  • Balls
  • Cones
  • Poles (or tall cones)
Setup
  1. Area: 20x20 yard area with cones marking the attackers' end line and defenders lined up on the opposite end line, gates set 15 yards in front of the defenders' start
  2. Team Red: 2 red outfield players (Player 1 and Player 2) start lined up on the end line opposite the attackers
  3. Team Blue: 3 blue outfield players (Player A, Player B and Player C) start spaced 20 yards apart along the attacking end line, with Player A holding the ball to start
  4. Equipment: 3 cones spaced 20 yards apart marking the attackers' starting line, poles set up as gates 15 yards in front of the defenders' start line, balls for play
Instructions
  1. Player A passes to Player B; Player 1 closes down Player B.
  2. Player B takes at least two touches and passes back to Player A; Player 1 recovers to start.
  3. Player A then passes to Player C; Player 2 closes down Player C.
  4. Player C returns the ball to Player A; Player 2 recovers.
  5. Players B and C can pass or dribble through the gates.
  6. Player A can pass through gates after receiving a return pass.
Coaching Points
  • Close down the ball quickly.
  • Use effective communication.
  • Maintain concentration.
  • Adopt a low, side-on body position.
  • Force the attacker outside or inside based on defensive support.
  • Demonstrate patience and timing.
  • Position feet staggered for balance.
  • Make play predictable by directing attackers.
  • Recover to initial positions efficiently.
  • Utilize pauses to correct and demonstrate technique.
  • Encourage vocal guidance between defenders.
Variations
Make it harder:
1. Allow attackers only one touch before returning the pass.
2. Introduce a countdown to encourage urgent defending.
Make it easier:
1. Increase distance between defenders and attackers.
2. Permit attackers additional touches before returning the pass.
3. Lower pace of passing to aid defensive adaptation.
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