Pressure and Cover (2v2)

Setup

• A 20 × 25 yard grid with an end line (or two small gates) for the attackers to dribble across.
• Two attackers start at one end with the ball, two defenders at the other.

How it works

1. The defenders pass the ball to the attackers and then step in.
2. The first defender (closest to the ball) closes down the player with it.
3. The second defender covers 3–5 yards behind, at an angle, ready if the first is beaten.
4. When the ball is passed across, the roles swap: the cover becomes pressure and the other drops in to cover.
5. Attackers score by dribbling over the end line; defenders score by winning it and passing to the coach.

Coaching points

• Close down fast, arrive slow: get low and side-on so you can't be beaten by a quick touch.
• Cover at an angle behind, not level with your partner.
• Swap roles as the ball moves, and talk: "I've got ball!" / "I'm behind you!"

Progressions

• Add a third attacker (3v2) so the defenders must decide who to press.
• Defenders must win it within 10 seconds.
• Add a third defender to practise balance across the back.