Soccer Switching Keep Away Training Drill
Setup
- 3 teams
- 2 grids (10yds x 20yds)
- cones to mark off area
- good supply of balls
- pinnies
- 15-25 min
Rules & Objectives
- five players try to keep the ball away from the two defenders
- after three (four) passes they are allowed to pass the ball to a player from the other grid who makes
- a run into the area between the two grids to receive the ball
- once he touches the ball the other two defenders from outside are allowed to enter the grid to pressure the ball
- the attacking team that loses possession or makes a mistake then switches roles with the defending team
Variations
- play 4v1, 5v3, 5v1 etc.
- pass to switch the grid must be one-touch
- player that switches the ball to the other grid must chip the ball
- allow the defenders to enter the grid as soon as the pass is made
- limit number of touches
- adjust spacing depending on the age and ability of the group
Coaching Points
- Attacking: angle, distance and timing of support
- Attacking: vision
- Attacking: body position - open to field
- Attacking: decision making
- Attacking: verbal and visual communication
- Defending: angle and distance of cover
- Defending: changing role of pressure and cover
- Defending: angle and speed of approach
- Defending: body shape, balance, and foot positioning
- Defending: delay and channel
