MOVEMENT OFF THE BALL (Switching Play in
Defence)
This practice is a continuation, but with the emphasis on
defenders actually working in a game situation i.e. switching
play and retaining possession.
Practice
Goalkeeper (GK) using his area, throws out to the right side
defender (A), who (still facing his own goal) plays for safety
by laying the ball back to centre defender (B), who adjusts
his position slightly.
On taking control (B) plays a long diagonal pass to (D) (the
left sided defender), - (B) then moves round to cover (as
in diagram).
(D)
collects and lays the ball back to (C), who then hits a long
pass ahead of (A) who controls and sets up an attack.
There are several key factors
(1) The weight on the passes
back by (A) and (D) must be accurate;
(2) First time passes whenever
possible, if not collect, control, then pass as swiftly as
possible
(3) (A) and (D) must try and
give width to the practice, and move up-field when possible;
so the diagonal passes from (B) and (C) must be accurate,
and should be ahead of the target player whenever possible
(4) It is crucial to maintain
the correct shape of the back four, - cover at all times,
and support play when needed
To progress
At a given signal the ball must be played back to the goalkeeper,
who would get control and set up the play as quickly as possible.
The goalkeeper must manoeuvre himself across the penalty area
at all times to maintain his participation in the practice.
He is part of the practice all the time, offering cover and
a back pass target if needed.
The goalkeeper should use both feet for
clearances, and should work at his quality of passing. He
should play one touch whenever possible, only using his hands
on the odd occasion.
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