Small sided game - Compact Defending
Exercise Description:
Area – 40 x 40 (Three zones, two 40x15 areas, and central 10x40)
6v6 + 1 link player is played with two mini goals at each end as shown. The zones are marked for the players to reference compact defending.
The coach serves a ball to the orange attackers.
1. The attackers can go into any zone.
2. The defending blue team must have players in two touching zones.
3. Defenders can also use the ‘line of confrontation’ as they set a defensive mid-block behind this line and in two zones.
4. When the defenders win the ball, their mindset changes. They spread out and counter or keep controlled possession and attack the two mini goals.
5. The first attack, blue is compact. In the second attack, blues are in all three zones so it is easier for oranges to score.
Coaching points:
Get compact, stay compact. Does the team press high? The first person to press may not win the ball. It's what the players behind the pressing player do that matters.
Intended outcome:
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To get the whole team to understand the importance of working together.
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To create problems that will occur in a soccer game and allow the players to stay focused on their defensive shape.
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Compact defending and working as a team are critical if the team wants to keep a clean sheet.
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To learn about high or medium press.
Variations:
Play 7v5 and have the team of seven attack five times. See if they can break through a compact defensive five.
Possible Performance Problems:
Players not working as a defensive unit. Slow reactions in the transition.
Be ready to focus - Make decisions
Keep scanning the area and visualize playing in a game.
Accept mistakes - Find solutions
Coach your teammates
Communicate
Applaud good play
Demanding teamwork
Reactions when the ball is won
Move into a compact shape
Make the tackle
Stay in two connecting zones
Get cmpact, make play predictable
Transition
Defensive stance - Win the ball