🔧 Set-up: Area: Half-pitch setup with defenders building out from the back aiming to score in a mini goal on the halfway line Players: 1 striker, 2 central midfielders, 3 defenders, 1 goalkeeper Equipment: Several footballs, 1 mini goal on the halfway line ⚽ Activity: The striker begins centrally, pressing the ball from the opposition’s goal kick or defensive possession The striker forces play to one side by cutting off central passing lanes, pushing the opponent toward a pressing trap The press is triggered when a defender plays a backward pass, takes a poor touch, or receives the ball facing their own goal The striker limits options by forcing predictable passes, allowing midfielders to intercept or apply secondary pressure If the opposition breaks the press, the striker must quickly retreat into a compact shape to prevent counter-attacks Rotate strikers and defenders regularly to build anticipation, pressing coordination, and fitness ✅ Coaching Points: Angle pressing runs to cut off central passing lanes Recognise pressing triggers like back passes or poor touches Coordinate with midfielders to trap and isolate opponents Maintain intensity and concentration during repeated pressing efforts Recover quickly if the press is bypassed ➕ Variations: Adjust the number of defenders involved Introduce quick attacking transitions if the pressing team wins possession Encourage immediate goal-scoring attempts from turnovers
