Transition Pressing Trigger Grid

Objective

• -Recognise the trigger to press
• -Press as a connected unit
• -Win the ball high up the pitch

Setup

1. 1A grid with a build-up zone and a pressing zone in a 40 x 32 yards area.
2. 2Mark a second target area at the opposite end so the practice can flip direction instantly.
3. 3Balls in the build-up zone, two sets of bibs.

How to play

1. 1The build-up team plays out and the pressing team waits for the trigger.
2. 2A backwards pass or heavy touch triggers the press.
3. 3Pressing team scores by winning the ball inside the zone.
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

• -Pressing individually and leaving gaps
• -Missing the trigger completely
• -Stopping to appeal instead of reacting to the turnover