01 Feb 2017

Improving basic 1 v 1 Defending

A follow up to the recent post of the Technique of 1 v 1 defending. In this defending practice, we focus on the basics of 1 v 1 defending. Closing down as the ball travels: Distances: Body position: and feet movement

ORGANISATION

• Players line up facing each other, 10 – 20 yards apart, with 10 yard wide zones for each pair.
• Position cones directly behind each pair of players
• On coaches’ command, the players at one end with the ball pass to their partners.
• As the ball travels, they quickly close the ball down an
• Initially, the receiving player walks forward with the ball, in a zig zag fashion and the defender mirrors their movement, backing off and keeping their distance

PURPOSE

• To develop players defensive movements and techniques and reactions to an attacker attacking them with a ball in 1 v 1 situations.
• The players should rotate often, have lots of goes at defending  1 v 1 and gradually increase the pace of their movements.

STRUCTURE

• On coaches’ command, one line of players with a ball each, pass the ball to their partner.
• As the ball is travelling, they quickly close the ball down
• They slow down and are under control as they approach the attacker.
• Their partners (the attackers) then start walking with the ball towards the opposite line, zig zagging as they do so.
• The defenders back of, mirroring the attackers’ movement and keeping a distance between themselves and the attackers.
• When they reach the opposite end, the players change roles.
• Gradually increase the pace and intensity of the players movement.

COACHING TIPS

• Pressure quickly, but slow down and be controlled as the player gets closer. Not too tight to attacker.
• Angled approach of player –  show the attacker one direction
• Body position, to force the attacker in one direction, be low and balanced and watch the ball
• As attacker advances, back off and keep a good distance between attacker and themselves, don’t be too tight.
• As attacker zig zags, mirror their movement, keeping the distance and body shape.
• Defender to try and keep their body between attacker and cone behind them