In the previous two practices the defender has worked to try and force the attacker down the flank.......for two reasons.

1. It forces the attacker towards what is probably the defenders strongest side and

2. It is the longest route to goal.

But obviously there can be a scenario where the attacker is proving too quick and tricky for the defender to allow him space down the flank, so it may be more advantageous to try and play him inside.  This will alter the angle of approach from the defender.

DIAGRAM (A)

 The distance for this training exercise is 15m vertical by 10m horizontal.

In diagram (a), defender X plays the ball to attacker Y, who advances. As before X closes the space quickly only this time he forces Y inside the field, by altering his approach close to the side line covering more of Y's right side. Y can, of course, play the ball across to Z, if he does X must move across preventing Z getting down the opposite flank..

In this 2 v 1 practice X has to work hard at covering the space and jockeying, delaying the attack as long as possible. In a match he could be the last defender and he may be called on to do this (see Diagram (b)).

DIAGRAM (B)

The distance for this training exercise is 15m vertical by 10m horizontal.

In diagram(c) a second defender W is added in a slightly larger area to make a 2 v 2 situation. He acts as a support and covering player to X.

In this practice X plays to Y who transfers the ball on to Z.  X moves quickly towards Y and he could switch to his right to face Z as the pass is made. But with W covering ,it is more likely that W would take the responsibility and face Z who is on his side of the area.

So W becomes the tackling defender, with X holding a more central role i.e. covering W and watching the movement of Y who can come back into the practice at any time. So Z tries to force Z inside the field towards X who has moved to position X2.

DIAGRAM (c)

 
The distance for this training routine is 18m vertical by 12m horizontal.

Dashed arrow = Player movement
Unbroken arrow = Path of Ball

It is important for W and X to communicate with each other as they see the intended movements of Y and Z. The two defenders X and W  need to work as a team, balancing each other watching to see where the real threat presents itself....always looking to offer cover one with the other.

The attackers should aim to be in control of the ball crossing line C-D. It is up to the defenders to delay the attack as long as possible and try and win the ball if the chance presents itself.