West Ham Mannequin Rondo

Instructions/Setup:

In this 4v1 rondo, the aim is to develop penetrative passes for the possession team and interceptions for the defender. The 4 players in possession must complete 'x' number of passes before attempting to hit the central mannequin with a pass. The defender, who is in the middle of the rondo, must work to prevent the pass to the mannequin by intercepting or disrupting the flow of play. This drill encourages both quick ball movement and defensive anticipation.

Coaching Notes:

• Penetrative Passing – Encourage the players in possession to look for penetrative passes that break lines and push the ball into dangerous areas. Players should avoid square or backward passes unless necessary and always look for the opportunity to play forward, either through the lines or into the space.

• Passing Combinations – The attacking team should focus on quick, dynamic combinations to outplay the defender. Use wall passes, 1-2s, and movement off the ball to create new angles and maintain possession. The focus should be on moving the ball as fast as possible to create a passing lane to the mannequin.

• Defensive Anticipation – The single defender in the middle should focus on reading the play and anticipating passes. Encourage the defender to track the ball and the movement of the players, looking for opportunities to intercept the pass to the mannequin. The defender must stay close to the ball while remaining aware of the passing options.

• Pressure on the Mannequin – Once a pass is played to the mannequin, the defending player should immediately work to pressure the passer and challenge the receiving player. This adds an extra level of realism to the practice, simulating the final phase of breaking down a defensive block and forcing players to make precise passes under pressure.

Progression 1: Add More Defenders

Add a second defender to the middle, creating a 4v2 scenario. This increases the difficulty and forces the possession players to work harder to find the penetrative pass and break down the defense.

Focus:

Improves decision-making under pressure and passing accuracy in tight spaces.

Progression 2: Reduce Number of Passes

Reduce the number of passes required before attempting to hit the mannequin, forcing the players in possession to play quicker and be more decisive in their passing choices.

Focus:

Enhances speed of play and quick thinking when under pressure.