Title
Defensive Duel Drill
Purpose
The drill aims to improve defensive capabilities by emphasizing quick footwork and strategic pressure application during one-on-one confrontations.
Setup
- Create a 10x10 yard square using cones.
- Place a cone 10 yards from each side of the square.
- Split players into two even groups, designating one group to wear pinnies.
- Position each group at opposite cones, facing inward toward the grid.
- Begin with one defender stationed in the center of the square.
How To Play
- An attacker initiates by dribbling into the grid with the aim of getting past the defender to exit on the opposite side.
- If the attacker successful evades the defender, they quickly pass to the next player in line from their team.
- When the defender successfully halts the attacker, roles are reversed: the attacker now becomes the defender and must engage the next player.
- Maintain a quick pace throughout the drill to emphasize agility and prompt reactions from both teams.
- Continue to rotate positions to give each player multiple opportunities to practice both attacking and defensive roles.
Coaching Points
- Communicate verbally with teammates to enhance awareness and strategy.
- Stay on the balls of your feet for maximum agility and responsiveness.
- Use proper footwork techniques to maintain balance while applying pressure.
- Keep your eyes on the ball and the attacker simultaneously.
- Dribble close to the defender to foster tighter control.
- Anticipate the attacker's movement and adjust your positioning.
- Employ effective body positioning to limit the attacker's options.