Set up as shown with 2 players and 1 ball between the two.
The area should be a 4x4 diamond, however the shape and size can be modified depending on the level of your players and the main aspect of ball shielding you want to achieve.
Play begins with the external player making a firm pass into the middle player. The external player closes down his pass and aims to win the ball back.
The player in the middle aims to keep the ball, shielding it away from the defender for 10 seconds and then acclerates out of the diamond.
Work on good firm passes that will allow the first touch of the players to be tested and improved.
Player in the middle should be ready and 'on their toes'.
Get the ball shielder to keep their body between the ball and the defender.
Can they use both feet and turn according to where the defender is?
Can they remain with a low stature and use their shoulder to hord off the defender?
in more ways than one
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in more ways than one
sportplan_football
Under FutureFit, your Under-9s stay at 5v5, your Under-11s stay at 7v7 and your Under-13s stay at 9v9. Same pitch, same numbers, one more year. Here is how to make sure that year feels like a step forward rather than a repeat.
Most 1v1s are lost in the first second, when the defender rushes in and dives. Teach your players to slow the attacker down, take away the dangerous option and pick the right moment, and they will win far more of them.
The FA's FutureFit framework lands this season, bringing a 3v3 entry format at Under-7s. Here is what actually changes on a Saturday morning, and how to coach it well.
