Week 71 1v1 With Transition

Instructions/Setup:

This 1v1 recovery defending drill begins with a defender dribbling out from the byline, just outside the penalty area. The defender then plays a forward pass into an attacker positioned just beyond the edge of the semi-circle. Immediately after the pass, the defender must sprint around one of two cones placed wide on either side of the penalty area to simulate a delayed recovery.

This delay allows the attacker to advance unopposed for a few seconds before engaging in a live 1v1 duel. The purpose of the setup is to create a realistic scenario where the attacker has a head start and the defender must recover quickly, make up ground, and attempt to stop the attacker from scoring.

Coaching Notes:

• Defender Transition Speed – Emphasize explosive acceleration after the pass to simulate realistic recovery runs under match conditions.

• Attacker Tempo – Encourage attackers to drive forward immediately, using their head start to challenge the recovering defender with speed and direction changes.

• Defensive Recovery Angles – Defenders should take smart recovery angles, aiming to delay or force the attacker wide rather than diving in too early.

• Body Positioning – On recovery, defenders must stay low with side-on body shape to react and adjust more effectively in 1v1 moments.

Progression 1: Attacker Chooses Cone After Pass

Allow the attacker to choose which cone to run around after making the pass, adding a reaction element and forcing the attacker to scan and adapt.

Focus:

Improves decision-making, scanning, and sharpens the attacker’s awareness of pressure and space.