62-P3 · Skill practice · U9–U14

1 v 1 Defensive Recovery Runs

1 v 1 Defensive Recovery Runs is a skill practice for U9–U14 teams (8 players, 15 × 15 yards) that works on dribbling, defending and defensive transition.

This simple defensive practice takes place in a 15 by 15-yard area and focuses on developing defensive recovery runs.

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1 v 1 Defensive Recovery Runs: still from the Touchtight coaching video 1:31
Age group
U9–U14
Players
8 players
Area
15 × 15 yards (1/8 Pitch)
Time
20–30 minutes
Goalkeeper
No
Coaches
1
Practice type
Skill practice
Coach level
Beginner (D Licence)

How it's set up

This simple defensive practice takes place in a 15 by 15-yard area and focuses on developing defensive recovery runs. We setup by splitting the area in half with both having the same setup. To begin, one player ( Blue 7) will drive forward and finish in the mini goal once they pass the cone. As they finish, this triggers the player on the other side ( Blue 10 ) to drive forward with the ball. The first player ( Blue 7 ), must make a quick recovery run across after finishing and try and stop the other attacker from finishing. This sequence will continue until all the balls have been used or the coach calls for a rest period.

Setup diagram for 1 v 1 Defensive Recovery Runs: pitch area, player positions and movements
Setup diagram · tap to enlarge

Key coaching points

  1. Quick reactions to defend the goal after finishing
  2. Speed to get across to defend
  3. Body shape to force the direction of the attack

Also in the full practice

  • 1 progression to make it harder as your players improveIn Club
  • 3 player questions to check understanding during the practiceIn Club
  • The coach-led video (1:31) how to set it up and deliver itIn Club
  • Add it to your team's Dugout drop it into a session plan with your warm-up and gameIn Club

Run it with your team.

Watch 62-P3 in full, then add it to your next session. It's one of over 1,000 practices in the Touchtight Club library.

Watch the full video ↗