Greetings Coaches,

This week we take a look at PRESSING to regain possession of the ball.
Pressing involves closing down opponents quickly (as a team) to deny them time on the ball. Teams may use a pressing tactic during a whole game or may choose to adopt this style at certain times of the game.
The following games / activities can be used to develop an understanding of when and how to “press”

Activity #1: Small-Sided Pressing Game
Set Up:

Two 15×15 yard grids side by side. 4 players in each grid. Repeat the setup to accommodate the entire team.

Explanation:

Play starts with a pass from the coach to either team. TWO players from the opposite team must run into the grid and attempt to regain possession of the ball. In the diagram above the two Yellow defenders (A,B) are sprinting into the opponents grid to put pressure on the players. This creates a 4v2 situation. If the defenders regain the ball they must quickly pass the ball to their teammates in the opposite grid – the defensive team must quickly send two players to regain possession of the ball. Play is continuous. Points are awarded for 8 consecutive passes.

Coaching Points:

1. Quickly close down the space quickly – force the attacking team into mistakes.
2. Work together to pressure the ball, offer support and close passing lanes.
3. Communicate with each other

Activity #2: 8v8 Pressing Game
Set Up:

Two teams of 8 players plus Goalkeepers are organized as shown below. The Goalkeepers are positioned in channels at each side of the pitch as shown.

Explanation:

Both teams compete for possession of the ball. Points are awarded for successfully passing the ball into the “target” goalkeepers in the end-zones. The “defensive” team must PRESS the opponent to deny any service into the target goalkeepers.

Coaching Points:

1. Close down the player with the ball quickly – do not give them time to settle on the ball.
2. The whole team must move together to offer support and attempt to regain possession of the ball. The above
3. Diagram illustrates the movement of the red defensive team to attempt to regain possession of the ball.

Activity #3: 8v8 to Goal
Set Up:

An 8v8 plus goalkeepers is organized on a half-pitch as shown below. A half-way line is marked with cones.

Explanation:

Both teams compete for possession of the ball and attempt to score in their opponents goal. Players are encouraged to deny any long service from the defensive half of the pitch. Emphasis is placed on regaining possession in the opponents half of the pitch.

Coaching Points:

1. All players must defend – PRESS the opponent no matter where they are on the pitch.
2. Do not give the opponents time to settle on the ball.
3. Defend “from the front” – forwards must work hard to close down the opposition defenders.
4. Regain possession in the opponents half and quickly attempt to score.