Close Down Game

Objective

• -Recognise when to press
• -Win the ball in advanced areas
• -Support the press with cover

Setup

1. 1Set up a 25 x 20 yard area with two mini goals at one end and a dribble line at the other.
2. 2Split players into two teams, with one team starting in possession.
3. 3Give bibs to each team and place spare balls around the edge.
4. 4Keep the game flowing with simple restarts from the coach.

How to play

1. 1The team in possession tries to dribble or pass through the far line or score in the mini goals.
2. 2The defending team presses as soon as the ball is played or the receiver takes a poor first touch.
3. 3If they win it, they attack straight away and try to score quickly.
4. 4After a goal or out of play, restart with a new ball from the coach.
5. 5Rotate teams every two or three minutes so everyone presses and protects.

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

• -Approaching too slowly
• -Diving in and being beaten
• -Pressing alone with no support