Coaching objective
Three defenders protect central space, travel together, and press when the ball or receiver becomes vulnerable.
Setup
- Create a field approximately 24 by 30 yards.
- Place two mini goals on each end line.
- Play 3v3 with spare players rotating every two to three minutes.
Rules and scoring
- Each team attacks the two goals opposite it.
- A goal is worth two points if scored within five seconds of winning the ball.
- Restart quickly from the coach when the ball leaves the area.
Coaching cues
- Nearest player pressures; second gives cover; third provides balance.
- Protect the middle first and encourage play toward a sideline.
- Travel while the ball travels and arrive as the receiver takes the first touch.
- Stay compact enough that one defender can help another.
- Press on a poor touch, slow pass, backward pass, or receiver facing their own goal.
Coach’s key teaching points
- The defensive shape should look like a compact triangle rather than a straight line.
- The third defender must see both the ball and the weak-side goal or runner.
- After winning the ball, spread quickly and attack before the opposition reorganizes.
Common errors to correct
- All three defenders moving toward the ball.
- The weak-side defender standing too wide and disconnecting from the group.
- Pressing without cover behind the ball.
- Defenders failing to react when the ball switches sides.
Progress the drill
- Add an end-zone target player for each team.
- Limit the attacking team to three touches.
- Expand to 4v4 while preserving pressure-cover-balance roles.
Simplify the drill
- Narrow the field.
- Use one neutral player for the team defending to create more regains.
- Pause after passes to rehearse the triangle shape.
What to measure
- Goals conceded through central areas.
- Number of regains triggered by an agreed pressing cue.
- Compactness between first and third defender.
- Counterattacks created within five seconds.