Soccer Middle Zone w Defenders Training Drill

Setup

  • middle zone 2-5yds deep
  • cones to mark off area
  • each dribbler with a ball
  • pinnies
  • 10 min

Rules & Objectives

  • objective is to dribble across middle zone without losing the ball
  • each time a defender wins the ball his group awarded a point
  • switch group of defenders every 2 minutes
  • group of defenders with the most points wins

Variations

  • vary number of defenders
  • defenders are awarded a point as soon as an attacker's ball leaves the grid
  • adjust spacing depending on the age and ability of the group if necessary

Coaching Points

  • Attacking: agility and balance
  • Attacking: deception
  • Attacking: set up defender
  • Attacking: change of speed &direction
  • Attacking: protect the ball
  • Attacking: vision
  • Attacking: close control
  • Attacking: attack open space
  • Defending: body shape, balance, and foot positioning
  • Defending: timing and decision to tackle

Difficulty: [drill_terms tax="difficulty"]

Emphasis: [drill_terms tax="emphasis"]

Number of Players: [drill_terms tax="number_of_players"]

Age Group: [drill_terms tax="age_group"]

Format: [drill_terms tax="format"]

Additional Drills