🔧 Set-up: Mark a 40x30-yard area with a small goal at one end Position 6 attackers and 4 shadow defenders ⚽ Activity: Attackers start in possession Defenders shadow press: closing space without tackling while blocking passing lanes When a pressing trigger occurs (e.g. poor touch, weak pass), defenders press aggressively to win the ball Attackers attempt to progress play and score in the small goal Rotate roles every 5 minutes for balanced practice Gradually reduce the shadowing time before defenders are allowed to press Introduce a recovering defender to add realistic pressure Add a scoring system for successful interceptions or turnovers ✅ Coaching Points: Stay close enough to apply pressure without overcommitting Position body to block passing lanes and reduce attacker’s options Be patient and read attacker’s body cues before pressing Press decisively when a clear trigger occurs Maintain compactness and communicate to support teammates during pressing phases ➕ Progressions: Add a second attacker to create numerical disadvantage for defenders Allow attackers to utilise wide areas to challenge defender movement and positioning
