THEME
6 v 6 Defending - Blocking The Gaps
DESCRIPTION OF PRACTICE (TECHNIQUE / SKILL)
A functional practice designed to improve players judgment of distance, awareness, communication and
movement when playing in a Defensive unit out of possession
ORGANISATION
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Area 20 x 15 metres
Blue players play with Blue players, Yellow players play with Yellow p layers
Players must stay in their zone
Team in possession try to play through the gaps keeping ball below head height
Defending team work as a unit and try to prevent third line passes
KEY FACTORS
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Movement of Defenders relative to movement of the ball and well co-ordinate
Can Defenders reduce the space as a unit, the opportunity for opponents to pass through their
Defensive lines will be greatly reduced (observe distances between players in each unit)
Immediate reaction on winning possession, can you play forward pass behind opposition? –
Transition with speed
In possession can you play with your head up and recognize the moment to pass quickly through a gap
Can team move the ball at pace to play through or round the opposing unit?
Transition to Attack on winning possession
Transition to Defend on losing possession
Decision making and communication are vital
NOTES
Encourage two touch if players of high quality