Week 70 Mastery Into 1v1

Instructions/Setup:

The practice begins with each player running through an unopposed ball mastery phase. In this phase, they drive towards a mannequin and perform a specific skill (e.g., a step-over, feint, or drag-back) to maneuver around the mannequin. After completing the skill move, they drive the ball into a grid where the 1v1 phase begins.

Once in the grid, the player immediately engages in a 1v1 situation with an opposing defender. The objective for the attacking player is to beat the defender and score into either of the two mini goals located within the grid. The defender’s goal is to prevent the attacker from scoring by using defensive positioning, timing, and tackling.

Coaching Notes:

• Mastery and Control: Encourage players to execute the ball mastery phase with close control, focusing on precise, quick movements to beat the mannequin. This phase helps develop touch and confidence in tight spaces.

• Skill Execution: Players should aim to be creative when performing the skill move on the mannequin, selecting the most appropriate skill for the situation. The move should be sharp, using the ball to quickly shift direction and commit the defender.

• Attacker Mindset: During the 1v1, the attacker should focus on quick decision-making, assessing the defender’s positioning and choosing the best direction to attack. Exploiting space and using changes of pace are key to beating the defender.

• Defensive Principles: Defenders should focus on positioning, staying balanced, and not diving in too early. They must force the attacker to one side and use proper timing to tackle without committing fouls.

Progression 1: Add a Time Limit

Introduce a time limit for the 1v1 phase (e.g., 10 seconds). If the attacker doesn't score within the time limit, the defender wins the point. This encourages both attackers and defenders to play with more urgency and decision-making.

Focus: Increases the intensity of both attacking and defending, requiring quicker actions and more decisive play.

Progression 2: Add a Second Defender

Introduce a second defender in the grid after the first defender has been beaten or the time limit expires. This creates a 2v1 situation, and the attacker must now work to break down two defenders to score into the mini goals.

Focus: Challenges attackers to adapt to increased pressure, requiring improved dribbling and quick decision-making under more difficult circumstances.