Coach Mick’s Playbook: 2 vs. 2 Defending the Shot

Set Up:

On the same 36 x 20 field, split teams into two lines, one on each post. All balls start with the Feeder.

• The game starts with a pass from the Feeder to either attacker. Play 2 v 2, with attackers trying to score on big goal. Defenders attack the small goal when they win ball. Also, the defenders can use their GK to keep possession.
• Once the ball is out, players return to their own lines and new players come on.
• Play for 2-3 minutes, and keep score. Then the teams switch sides and play continues.

Coaching Points:

1.  The 1st defender needs to get to attacker quickly in order to deny the shot.

2.  The 1st defender must control their speed so as not to get beat 1 v 1.

3.  The closer the defenders are to their own goal, the closer they must be to each other.

Progressions:

1.  Both teams attack large goals with GKs.

Questions:

1. What is the role of the pressuring defender when close to our own goal? (Don’t dive in, but keep body between ball and goal).
2. When should the pressuring defender try to win the ball? (when the attack makes a mistake).
3. What is the role of the covering defender? (to keep the field compact, but remain close enough to the 2nd attacker to provide immediate pressure).
4. What should the defending team do if the attacking team plays backwards? (move up as a unit to keep the field compact, and catch any opposing players offside if a penetrating ball is played).