DRILL
Pairs vs Free-range Defenders
  • Purpose
    Free range defenders run around trying to intercept pairs passing. Good peripheral vision needed by pairs, well-disguised intercepts required by defenders.
  • Focus
    Attacking Systems, Games & Races
  • Skills
    Preliminary Moves & Passing, Defensive Moves
  • 7
    Players

  • 6+
    Ages

  • 3
    Balls

  • 0
    Cones


  • Distance

  • 3
    Opp Strip

  • Allocate 1 defender per 1.5 - 2 pairs (e.g. 3/4 pairs=2 defenders, 5/6 pairs=3 defenders). If 3 pairs, restrict playing area to 1/3 otherwise use 2/3.
  • Pairs must perform double plays together anywhere within the playing area.
    Use preliminary moves to find space
    Make a rule that passes must be at least 2m, to give defenders a better chance.
    Enforce held ball rule
  • Defenders use three stages of defending to effect a turnover. Any pair is fair game, so pairs need to use peripheral vision to scan for defenders ready to pounce.
  • If a turnover applies, return the ball to the pair and they restart. Continue for set period of 60-90 seconds.
    To make it fun, count the number of turnovers a defensive unit effected - highest score wins
  • Another option is to gradually build intensity is to start with just 1 defender, then every 15 seconds introduce an additional defender from sideline.
    Reduces drill intensity for novice teams
  • Take time to reflect on what caused turnovers; rotate defenders and restart.

Three Person Weave

PLAYERS 6
DIFFICULTY MEDIUM

Wagon Wheel

PLAYERS 7
DIFFICULTY MEDIUM

Goalie Five to One

PLAYERS 6
DIFFICULTY EASY