Week 58 1v1 Arrival Activity

Instructions/Setup:

This fun warm-up practice splits players into attackers and defenders. On the whistle, the defending players must sprint to a position beneath the ball to protect the goal, while the attacking players sprint to the ball and attempt to score. Each repetition is limited to 10 seconds, meaning attacking players must act with urgency and speed to get a shot off quickly.

Coaching Notes:

• Defender Positioning & Awareness

Defenders must focus on quickly getting into position to defend the goal. They should use their sprint to gain the correct position, always keeping an eye on the ball and the attacker. Emphasize defensive stance and body shape to prevent the attacker from getting a clear shot.

• Attacker’s Speed and First Touch

The attacking players need to sprint to the ball as quickly as possible, ensuring their first touch is controlled and sets them up for a fast finish. Encourage them to keep the ball close to their body for better control and quicker decision-making under pressure.

• Urgency & Decision Making

Both attackers and defenders should focus on quick reactions and high intensity during the 10-second time frame. Attackers must decide whether to take the shot or try a quick move to get past the defender. For defenders, the challenge is to read the attacker’s movement and close down the space rapidly.

• Game-Like Scenarios

Make sure that both attacking and defending players stay mentally switched on, as this drill mimics fast-paced, real-game scenarios where players often have limited time to react. Encourage the attackers to aim for different areas of the goal (low corners, far post) to increase the variety of finishing skills.

Progression 1: Add a Time Limit for the Defender

Defenders must touch the goal post before they can defend. This limits the defender's time to set up and increases the urgency for them to get into position faster.

Focus: This progression challenges defenders to improve their ability to quickly react and position themselves under pressure.

Progression 2: Increase Number of Defenders

Add a second defender to challenge the attacking player even more. This could create a 2v1 situation, where attackers need to make quick decisions and potentially beat both defenders.

Focus: This progression helps attackers improve their ability to handle multiple defenders and enhance their creativity in attack.