FineSoccer Drill 49

This is a defensive organization and discipline drill that also works on communication

There will be three defenders going against seven attackers.  The three defenders start at the top of the D and the seven attackers are on the other side of midfield.  The keeper punts the ball out toward midfield and as soon as the ball is punted, one defender has to run out and touch a cone out on the left side of the field, one has to touch on a cone on the right side of the field and the third defender has to sprint and touch the goalpost.  No attacker can cross midfield until the ball does (for younger groups this can be moved in somewhat).  See the diagram below for the setup and runs.

 Once the defenders make their sprints they must organize themselves so that one goes toward the ball to slow them down and the other two provide proper support and balance. If the defense either wins the ball or simply slows down the attack, they win.

This drill works on goalkeeper communication as well as organization.  Also it works on a teams shape and balance.  I would recommend doing this as the last step in a progression from Drill 4, Drill 5 and then Drill 6.

As a warning, realize that this is a defensive drill.  It would seem that the attacking team would be successful almost every time because of the number superiority but please realize, this is an unnatural attacking formation and if the defense does their job, the defense will win all (or at least most) of the attacks.

Give this a try and let me know what you think at the FineSoccer Forum.

Have a great day.

Lawrence