Soccer 4v1 Keep Away Training Drill

Setup
- groups of 5
- grid (12yds x 12yds)
- cones to mark off area
- 10-15 min
Rules & Objectives
- players on the outside of grid try to keep possession by passing the ball around
- defending player switches with the attacking player who makes an error
- players can move up and down their lines but cannot come inside the grid
- first pass is free
Variations
- outside players cannot pass back to pass giver
- add a second defender
- regular 4v1 keep away with all players inside the grid
- switch defender if he intercepts 3 passes
- limit number of touches for players on the outside
- adjust spacing depending on the age and ability of the group
Coaching Points
- angle, distance and timing of support
- vision
- body position - open to field
- decision making
- verbal and visual communication
- good first touch takes ball away from pressure
- weight of pass
- accuracy
- disguise
Difficulty: Intermediate
Emphasis: Passing, Possession
Number of Players:
Age Group: 12 to 15, 16+, 5 to 7, 8 to 11
Format: 4v3

