England Build Up v Press

Instructions/Setup:

This drill focuses on building possession under pressure and transitioning quickly to maintain attacking momentum. Play starts with two defenders sprinting into the grid to attempt to win possession. The attacking team must complete five passes on one side of the grid before transferring the ball to the other side. Once the ball is transferred, two new defenders sprint in to replace the original defenders, and the drill continues. If the defenders win possession, they transition into a counter-attack and attempt to score in one of the main goals.

The key to success in this drill is for the attacking team to maintain composure under pressure and work together to complete passes. The defenders must be alert and aggressive in trying to win the ball and transition quickly into attack once possession is regained.

Coaching Notes:

• Quick Passing: Encourage players to move the ball quickly and decisively to complete the five-pass requirement efficiently, minimizing the chance of defensive interceptions.

• Movement and Support: Players should focus on providing passing options for the ball carrier, using intelligent off-the-ball movement to create angles and maintain possession under pressure.

• Transition Speed: Once the ball is transferred, the attacking team must be ready to switch focus and exploit space on the other side of the grid, while the defenders quickly recover to disrupt the new attack.

• Defensive Aggression: Defenders should be proactive in closing down passing lanes and applying pressure, trying to force mistakes or intercept passes to quickly transition to an attacking scenario.

Progression 1: Add More Defenders:

Introduce an additional defender or reduce the number of passes needed before transitioning to increase the pressure on the attacking team and create a more challenging environment for maintaining possession.

Focus: This progression simulates higher levels of defensive pressure, encouraging quicker decision-making and better positioning from the attacking players.