Protect the Posts

Objective

• -Defend deliveries into the box
• -Attack the first ball
• -Clear danger under pressure

Setup

1. 1Place two mini goals or target zones at one end of the area.
2. 2Set up a wide service point with attackers and defenders in the box.
3. 3Keep the group close enough for safe heading and clearing work.

How to play

1. 1The coach or attacker serves a high ball into the area.
2. 2Defenders mark, jump to challenge and protect the goal side space.
3. 3Attackers try to score from the delivery if allowed.
4. 4If the defenders win it, they clear to the side or over a line.
5. 5Rotate after each service.

Progressions

• +Switch To Score: two switches before scoring
• +Five Second Counter-Press: three seconds to win it back
• +Target Zone Bonus: only goals started from a pocket count
• +Add a competitive scoreline for the last round

Regressions

• -Switch To Score: switch earns a bonus point rather than being compulsory
• -Five Second Counter-Press: eight seconds and fewer opponents
• -Target Zone Bonus: widen the pocket zones
• -Simplify the area or the service until success returns

Variations

• -Switch To Score — A goal only counts after the ball has been switched from one side of the pitch to the other.
• -Five Second Counter-Press — On losing the ball the team has five seconds to win it back before dropping into shape.
• -Target Zone Bonus — Extra points for playing into marked pockets between the lines before finishing.
• -Overload Rotation — One team plays with an extra player for two minutes then the overload rotates.
• -Restart Realism — All restarts are played as in a match — throw-ins, goal kicks and corners rather than a coach ball.
• -Two-Goal Decision — Each team attacks two small goals, so defenders must decide which threat to cover.
• -Limited Touch Build-Up — Maximum three touches in your own half, unlimited once you pass the halfway line.
• -Flip the practice to the opposite side of the pitch

Common mistakes

• -Standing flat-footed
• -Not tracking runners
• -Weak or hesitant clearances