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How can I improve defensive shape after a failed press?

With my U16 team, I often like to use high presses throughout matches and have scored a number of goals as a result. The problem is, often the triggers are only recognised by a few of the players, leading to a failed press. Obviously I will have to work with them on recognising press triggers, however how can I help improve the overall team shape after a press has failed? For example, say 3 players; a left midfielder, centre midfielder and centre forward in a 4-3-3 have attempted a press in the opposition's right back position. The press has failed and now the team is 3 players short and facing a counter attack.

Ben LowryCoach, England

2 answers

ANSWERS

Volda FotballCoach, England

Recovery runs is a good area to cover which might help. This is not just about what the 3 players have to do to get back quickly (the three that pressed) but more importantly what the job of the rest of the team is.

For example, you want the team to slow down the opposition and stay compact to allow time for the other three players to recover to get organised again. I have a plan somewhere on here which i can look for later which looks at recovery runs and the key coahcing points of preventing counter attacks.

Volda FotballCoach, England

I hope this helps :)