THEME
Defending with Goalkeeper, Back 4 and Midfield 3 with transition to Attack
DESCRIPTION OF PRACTICE (TECHNIQUE / SKILL)
Phase of play practice design to improve the defensive organisation of the Midfield 3, Back 4 and Goalkeeper
ORGANISATION
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Area: Full Width of the pitch and 3 gates positioned 5 metres over halfway line
In Yellow Goalkeeper, Back 4 and Midfield 3 V in Blue Midfield 3 and Front 3
3 Target Blue players in the gates
Blue teams looking to score in the Goal
Yellow team looking to defend and win the ball back (Transition to Attack) and pass into any
of the 3 gates
KEY FACTORS
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Defensive shape in Midfield – 2 Holding players (6 & 8) and an advanced Midfielder (10), Back 4
compact, Goalkeeper off his line
Yellows must move as a team as the ball is passed around the pitch, making it difficult to play through
them. Keep shape don’t allow opposition to pull players out of position
1 v 1 Defending – Close Quickly, put on the brakes, defending stance
Pressure and Cover, Balance – Nearest man presses, second close cover
Communication from players behind is key
Opened body shape when defending see ball and man
Goalkeeper acts as sweeper/keeper
When ball is won, look to play forward as quickly as possible through quality passing.
NOTES
100% concentration needed, communication between players is vital