3 Zone Defending
A 5v5 or 6v6 where the focus is on defending together across three lanes.
Set up
- Mark a pitch of about 40 by 60 divided into 3 lanes, with a goal at each end.
- Two teams of 5 or 6.
Balls, bibs, cones and nets. Pitch about 40 by 60 divided into 3 lanes.
How to play
- Play a directional game trying to score in the opposition's net.
- The lanes help players with distances and angles.
- The game focuses on the defenders: can they stop the attack and win the ball back, individually (pressure) and as a team (cover).
Make it easier
Make it harder
- The defending team must drop back to their half.
- The defending team cannot be in all 3 lanes at the same time.
Three things to say
- Who, where and when to press.
- How to press: speed and angle of approach, body position.
- Who provides cover.
Colts habit
Lift each other: cover your teammate when they press.
Both feet
Win the ball with either foot.
Heads up
See the ball and your lane.
Safety: Keep the area clear of bags and bottles. Stay on your feet, no slide tackles. No heading.
Keeping score: Each child keeps their own count and tries to beat it next time. Nothing is compared between children.