1v1 Defending Duels

Objective

• -Delay and deny the attacker
• -Adopt a strong defensive stance
• -Win the ball at the right moment

Setup

1. 1Mark a 12 x 10 channel with a scoring line at each end.
2. 2Defender starts on the goal-side line, attacker faces them.
3. 3Balls stored on both sides.

How to play

1. 1Defender passes to the attacker and closes down.
2. 2Attacker tries to cross the defender's line under control.
3. 3Swap roles after each duel.

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

• -Diving in on the first touch
• -Standing square and getting turned
• -Closing down too slowly