Roma 1v1 Evading Pressure

Instructions/Setup:

In this drill, the player in possession must use their body to evade an oncoming defender. The drill begins with a pass from the defender to the attacker, who must then use their body to shield the ball and create space away from the defender.

Once the attacker has controlled the ball, they are tasked with dribbling toward either of the two mini goals located at the bottom and right side of the grid. To score, the attacker must first cross a marked line that encourages them to dribble and beat the defender before taking a shot. The defender's goal is to press and challenge the attacker without conceding space for a clean shot.

Coaching Notes:

• Body Positioning: Emphasize the importance of using the body to protect the ball and shield it from the defender. The player should focus on creating space by using their arms and body to block the defender’s path.

• Change of Pace: Encourage attackers to vary their pace after using their body to shield the ball. A sudden burst of speed after the feint will give them an advantage in escaping the defender.

• Proper Footwork: Focus on quick and precise footwork to maneuver around the defender, using sharp turns and body shifts to maintain control of the ball.

• Dribbling Before Shooting: Reinforce the need to dribble past the marked lines before taking the shot. This ensures that players engage in the dribbling phase first, allowing them to set themselves up for a better angle and clearer shot.

Progression 1: Add a Defender's Tackle:

Introduce a tackling phase where the defender is allowed to challenge the ball once the attacker has passed the marked line but before the shot is taken. The defender can tackle from behind or side to side, forcing the attacker to be quicker in their decision-making.

Focus: Encourages the attacker to be more aware of the defender’s position, improving dribbling under pressure and the ability to protect the ball until the moment is right for shooting.