Line and Layer

Objective

• -Show how to defend in layers
• -Help players understand distance between lines
• -Train collective movement across the pitch

Setup

1. 1Set a 34 x 24 yard pitch with cones.
2. 2Split players into two teams in bibs.
3. 3Mark two horizontal lines across the pitch with cones.

How to play

1. 1Play a game where one team attacks and the other defends in two layers.
2. 2The defenders must stay organised between the two lines and shift together.
3. 3The attacking team tries to pass or dribble through the lines and score.
4. 4If defenders win the ball, they can counter straight away.
5. 5Swap teams after each round.

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

• -Lines too far apart
• -Defenders chasing into the same space
• -Opening the middle with poor spacing