Lazio Ball Mastery

Instructions/Setup:

This drill focuses on evading pressure and making precise passes under defensive pressure. Play begins with the coach passing the ball into the attacker, who must then evade pressure from the defender and attempt to pass the ball into one of the cones, knocking it off the base.

For each cone knocked off, the attacker is rewarded with a point. If the defender wins possession or the attacker fails to knock a ball off the cone, the roles are reversed, and the defender becomes the attacker. This drill helps improve the attacker’s ability to make accurate passes under pressure while challenging the defender to apply pressure effectively.

Coaching Notes:

• Evasion and Ball Control: The attacker should focus on using quick changes of direction, body feints, and close ball control to evade the defender. Encouraging the attacker to maintain balance while keeping the ball close is crucial to staying in control during the evasion.

• Passing Accuracy: Emphasize the importance of delivering precise passes to knock the cones off. The attacker should aim to pass with accuracy and consistency, adjusting the pace of the ball to ensure it hits the cone without being intercepted by the defender.

• Defensive Pressure: The defender should focus on closing down space quickly and applying pressure without overcommitting. They should work on their positioning to anticipate the attacker’s movements, aiming to intercept the pass or force the attacker into a mistake.

• Decision Making: Encourage the attacker to make quick decisions on which cone to target. They should be aware of the defender’s positioning and adjust their strategy accordingly to make the most effective pass under pressure.

Progression 1: Add a Time Limit:

Introduce a time limit for each attacking phase, requiring the attacker to knock as many cones off as possible within a set time frame. This will increase the intensity of the drill and encourage quicker decision-making from the attacker.

Focus: This progression encourages speed and efficiency, pushing the attacker to make decisions faster while maintaining control and accuracy in passing.

Progression 2: Add More Cones:

Increase the number of cones in the grid, allowing the attacker to choose from more targets. This variation will test the attacker’s ability to quickly assess the best target and make multiple passes in a short amount of time.

Focus: This progression encourages better spatial awareness and tactical thinking, as the attacker needs to quickly analyze their surroundings and choose the best cone to aim for.