Wave Line Press

Objective

• -Repeat pressing efforts
• -Recover into shape after a press
• -Build fitness through game actions

Setup

1. 1Mark a 30 x 25 yard area with two end lines.
2. 2Split players into three groups: two teams and one rest group.
3. 3Use bibs to identify the pressing and possession teams.
4. 4Keep extra balls with the coach on the side.

How to play

1. 1The possession team tries to keep the ball for a set number of passes.
2. 2The pressing team sends one player to press, with support behind.
3. 3If the ball is won or forced out, the pressing team attacks the nearest end line.
4. 4After each attack, the rest group feeds a new ball in and the teams rotate.
5. 5Keep rounds short and intense.

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

• -Chasing every ball alone
• -Switching off after a failed press
• -Moving too slowly between actions