Tackle And Turn

Objective

• -Improve tackling and recovery
• -Develop quick reactions
• -Add a transition mindset

Setup

1. 1Set two small end zones 5 yards deep at each end of a 30 x 20 yard area.
2. 2Split players into two even teams, each in bibs.
3. 3Place one ball in the middle to start each round.
4. 4Players begin in pairs facing each other on the halfway line.

How to play

1. 1The coach plays the ball into the middle and two players sprint to contest it.
2. 2The winner must take control and dribble into their end zone to score.
3. 3The loser must turn and try to recover before the score.
4. 4Restart with two new players each round until everyone has gone.
5. 5Keep rounds short and competitive.

Progressions

• +Two-Touch Limit: drop to one touch in the central area
• +Weak Foot Only: add a defender to raise the pressure
• +Tempo Clock: cut the clock to four seconds
• +Add a competitive scoreline for the last round

Regressions

• -Two-Touch Limit: allow three touches while the picture is learned
• -Weak Foot Only: static, unopposed reps before adding movement
• -Tempo Clock: extend the clock to ten seconds
• -Simplify the area or the service until success returns

Variations

• -Two-Touch Limit — Players are limited to two touches — one to control, one to release.
• -Weak Foot Only — Every touch, pass and finish must be with the weaker foot.
• -Tempo Clock — The ball must reach the end action inside six seconds or the rep restarts.
• -Scan and Cue — The coach shows a colour or number and the receiver must call it before their first touch.
• -Shadow Pressure — A shadow defender applies half pressure and can win the ball only after the first touch.
• -Score Challenge — Run it as a timed competition — pairs or teams count successful reps and compare scores.
• -1-to-1 Session — Run as an individual session: coach serves, one player works through the reps with rest built in.
• -Flip the practice to the opposite side of the pitch

Common mistakes

• -Running straight into contact
• -Winning it but not keeping it
• -Stopping after the challenge