The following two activities are utilized to develop an understanding of ‘Pressing’ in small groups and the key elements of transitioning to defend on any loss of possession. The ‘transition’ moments in the game are vital – it is essential that teams / players develop good habits and quick thinking on any loss of possession in order to maintain structure and prevent successful attacking options from the opponent.
‘Counter-Pressing’ is a tactical component utilised in certain situations; during the moment of losing possession it is a tactical choice to apply counter-pressing to regain possession as quickly as possible. Coaches may opt to use this at all times / at certain times / in various areas of the pitch depending on their overall playing style. The following activities can also be utilized to emphasise key elements of counter-pressing.
Pressing & Transition Games
1.
Setup:
Playing area is approx. 40m long x 25m wide; a 5m wide middle zone is created. Three teams of 4 players are created plus two neutral (red) players. Neutral players (6+8) are central midfield players.
Instructions:
POSSESSION – PRESSING IN SMALL GROUPS + TRANSITION:
Note: the Yellow team is designated as the defensive team to begin the exercise – all 4 players must start in central zone. The exercise begins with one team maintaining possession; 2 Defensive players must move into that zone to ‘press’ to win possession. One of the Neutral players (6 or 8) must move into that zone to support the team in possession – this creates a 5v2 for the possession team. 1 point is awarded for 10 consecutive passes; after 10 passes the team must look to pass to the other Neutral player in the central zone or directly to the opposite 4 players (Green in diagram). If Yellow wins possession the roles reverse and the team losing possession becomes the defensive team.
Play is continuous.
Progression: Send 3 Defensive players to increase pressure on possession group.
Coaching Points:
- ‘Press’ together to deny passing channels and attempt to win possession
- Communication is vital
- On losing possession; immediately transition to defend
- Develop quick thinking – ‘transition’ / ‘press’!
2.
Setup:
Playing area is approx. 30m long x 22m wide. Three teams of 4 players are created as shown. Four Green Players are positioned on the perimeter; Red team has 2 target and 2 Neutral central players.
Instructions:
POSSESSION – PRESSING IN SMALL GROUPS + COUNTER-PRESSING:
Play starts with the Red + Green teams maintaining possession against the Black (Defensive) team – this creates an 8v4; 10 consecutive passes = 1 goal. Black (Defensive) team must ‘press’ together to deny 10 consecutive passes and also to prevent splitting passes to #6 + #8 centrally (i.e.) protect the central area. If Defensive team (Black) wins possession the Green team must immediately run into the playing area to apply counter-pressing; Black team then becomes the perimeter team and maintains possession with Red.
Play is continuous.
Note: Coach may need to dictate the beginning by delivering the next ball.
Coaching Points:
- Defensive team -‘Press’ together to deny passing channels and attempt to win possession
- Communication is vital
- On losing possession; immediately transition to defend – think ‘Counter-Press’ immediately
- Develop quick thinking – ‘transition’ / ‘press’!
3.
Setup:
Playing area is approx. 30m long x 22m wide. Three teams of 4 players are created as shown. Four Green Players are positioned on the perimeter; Red team has 2 target and 2 Neutral central players.
Instructions:
POSSESSION – PRESSING IN SMALL GROUPS + COUNTER-PRESSING:
In the Diagram: the Defensive team (Black) has intercepted a pass from #8. Immediately the Perimeter players (Green) have transitioned to defend – think ‘Counter-Press’ immediately. The Black + Red teams must now attempt to maintain possession against the Green opponents.
Coaching Points:
- Defensive team -‘Press’ together to deny passing channels and attempt to win possession
- Communication is vital
- On losing possession; immediately transition to defend – think ‘Counter-Press’ immediately
- Develop quick thinking – ‘transition’ / ‘press’!