Using two mini goals back to back in a coned off area of approx 10m² for 1v1.
1v1 session where ball is thrown in by coach both players must attempt to score in the opposition goal. 1st player to touch the ball has to protect and shield the ball using their body while other player must attempt to tackle
This exercise cemented my back 3 defenders. Due to the luxury of 4 extremely fast wingers - who, when opposition had a corner, were trained to make their way as far left or right of the half way line so as they made as much room as possible to run into when the ball was cleared into open space leaving marking defenders dead in their tracks due to the amount of pace my wingers were blessed with
Thanks Carl, sounds good! So you use your intercept sessions to help create a counter, if I have interpreted that right? Do you work on intercepting with your wingers too?
Yes intercept and shielding were used to create counters.. Also it taught the girls how to absorb and pass accurate under pressure, then release the ball into the area where there was most space. When we started @ 5v5 we played with wingbacks 1 main cb and a striker. So players knew they HAD to track back which became ingrained, second nature. Yes, the girlsi had playing on the wing always pressed high however never too close to be caught out with inside passes... At 7v7 I was the only coach at the club who intentionally taught the girls how to tackle, I later found out I was the only coach in the league doing this.... One of our midfielders (who I actually spotted where we played 5v5 and convinced her Dad to come and manage with us) reminded me of Paul Scholes the split second I saw her playing, it took around 3 seasons to finally get the pair, however at the age of 6 and a fair bit smaller than the other girls she made up with it with her confidence, tenacity, everything. When I had to fold the team (with her dad's permission) I recommend her to Rochdale Ladies AFC. She was the sort of player that would run through walls for you.. She had the strength and mindfulness to probably do it too
