Tackling

Side-On Tackling Channel: Switch To Score

Win the ball while running alongside

Tackling
Defending
Speed & Agility

Side-On Tackling Channel: Switch To Score is a 14-minute tackling drill for 4-16 players, suitable for Under 10 to Adults at beginner, intermediate, advanced level. You need balls, cones, bibs. Below you will find the objective, the set-up, how to run it, coaching points, common mistakes, progressions, regressions and variations.

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Tackling
Defending
Speed & Agility
Skill Practice
Beginner
Intermediate
Advanced
Full Squad
Minimal Equipment
Youth Friendly
Adult Suitable
Switching Play
Team Shape
Decision Making

Duration

14 min

Players

4-16

Pitch size

20 x 8 yard channel

Ability levels

Beginner / Intermediate / Advanced

Objectives

  • -Win the ball while running alongside
  • -Choose the right moment to tackle
  • -Stay on the feet

Setup

  1. 1A long narrow channel with a target line at the end.
  2. 2Attacker and defender start side by side.
  3. 3Balls at the start of the channel.

Coaching instructions

  1. 1Attacker runs the channel, defender runs alongside and tackles when the touch is heavy.
  2. 2Defender scores by winning it and stopping the ball.
  3. 3Swap after each rep.
  4. 4A goal only counts after the ball has been switched from one side of the pitch to the other.

Coaching points

  • -Match the attacker's pace before tackling
  • -Tackle on their heavy touch
  • -Use the near foot and keep balance
  • -Recognise when the near side is blocked
  • -Change the point of attack with a fast, driven pass

Common mistakes

  • -Tackling from behind
  • -Getting shoulder to shoulder too late
  • -Going to ground unnecessarily

Where this drill fits

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