One vs One to a Central Goal
Save for the goalkeeper, there are no specialists on the soccer team.. Although field players are commonly labeled as attackers, defenders and midfielders, in reality each functions as an attacker when his or her team has possession of the ball and as a defender when the opposing team has possession. It is imperative that players understand their roles and responsibilities on both attack and defense, and be willing and able to make the immediate transition from one to the other upon change of possession. Attacking and defending principles start with the most fundamental tactical unit - one player versus one player. Although soccer is considered a "team" game, field players will inevitably engage in a number of one-on-one confrontations with opponents throughout the course of a match. These mini-competitions within the larger game contribute in large part to the final outcome. Although physical ability is obviously an important factor, a player's rate of success in one-on-one situations ultimately depends on his or her ability to make correct decisions, to do the right thing at the right time. Players who consistently make poor decisions usually end up on the short end of their individual matchups. In the end it is the team that suffers the consequences. The following drill will improve players' ability to successfully compete in one-on-one situations, and will also develop aerobic and anaerobic fitness. Number of Players: Two; one versus one.
Organization: Use markers to outline an area of 15 by 20 yards. Position a pair of cones or flags 2 yards apart in the center of the area to represent a common goal Players position within the area; one has the ball to begin.
Procedure: Players compete one-on-one within the area. Goals are scored by passing or dribbling through either side of the central goal. Change of possession occurs when the defending player steals the ball, when the ball leaves the playing area, and after a score. The player scoring the most goals wins. Time: Play a series of 2-minute games with 90 seconds active rest (ball juggling or light dribbling) between games.
Coaching Tips: Encourage immediate transition from attack to defense and vice versa upon loss of possession. Emphasize proper execution of dribbling and shielding skills when on the attack; emphasize balance, body control and proper defensive posture when on defense. Use block and poke tackle techniques to win the ball; prohibit slide tackles due to the limited field area and the increased possibility of injury. Increase the size of the goal and shorten the game to 45 seconds for younger players.
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