Three Cone Squeeze

Objective

• -Learn to close down in stages
• -Use body shape to trap the ball
• -Press with patience

Setup

1. 1Make a small rectangle with three cones across one side as a target line.
2. 2Work in pairs or small groups of three.
3. 3Place one attacker and one presser inside the area.
4. 4Keep a ball ready with each group or the coach.

How to play

1. 1The attacker starts with the ball and tries to reach the target line.
2. 2The presser approaches quickly, then slows to control the space.
3. 3A second defender can join if you want a 2v1 pressing moment.
4. 4If the ball is won, the defender takes it over the line or dribbles to a cone.
5. 5Repeat often with short, sharp turns.

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

• -Rushing in without control
• -Allowing the attacker to turn
• -Standing square and easy to beat