All Drills

Press Trigger

defending advanced U14 U16+ Adult

15

Minutes

6

Players

3

Items

Objective

Recognise the press trigger and execute a coordinated team press.

Equipment

  • Ball
  • Cones
  • Bibs

Instructions

  1. 1

    3 attackers build from the back in a 25x20 yard zone against 3 defenders.

  2. 2

    Defenders hold a compact shape. When the ball goes to a wide attacker's back foot or a poor first touch occurs, the nearest defender presses hard — this is the trigger.

  3. 3

    Remaining two defenders shift to cut off passing lanes.

  4. 4

    Rotate roles every 4 minutes.

Coaching Points

  • The trigger must be clear: back foot or heavy touch only — not every pass.
  • When one presses, the other two must shift immediately — not after watching.
  • If the trigger is missed, reset — do not chase.

Variations

  • Add a fourth attacker to challenge the press further.

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