Transition Back Four Slide

Objective

• -Coach the defensive line sliding across together
• -Maintain distances between defenders
• -Cover and balance behind the pressing player

Setup

1. 1A back line facing three attacking stations across the pitch in a 50 x 40 yards area.
2. 2Mark a second target area at the opposite end so the practice can flip direction instantly.
3. 3Balls at each attacking station, bibs for the defensive unit.

How to play

1. 1Ball is switched between attacking stations and the line slides across.
2. 2The nearest defender presses while the others tuck in and cover.
3. 3Freeze the picture occasionally to check distances.
4. 4Coach serves a loose ball into the middle and both teams react to win it.
5. 5On every turnover the winning team has six seconds to attack the opposite target.

Progressions

• +Cut the counter window to four seconds
• +Raise the demand once the group is consistently successful

Regressions

• -Freeze the play for two seconds after each turnover to reset shape
• -Simplify the area or the service until success returns

Variations

• -Coach can serve a second ball to force an instant re-transition
• -Run the practice on the opposite side of the pitch

Common mistakes

• -One defender flying out alone
• -Line stretching across the pitch
• -Stopping to appeal instead of reacting to the turnover