All Drills

Win Second Balls

defending intermediate U12 U14 U16+ Adult

12

Minutes

4

Players

3

Items

Objective

Position correctly after a clearance to win the second ball.

Equipment

  • Ball
  • Cones
  • Bibs

Instructions

  1. 1

    Defender clears a long ball toward a midfield zone. Two attackers and one midfielder contest.

  2. 2

    Clearing defender must immediately sprint forward 10 yards to compete for the second ball.

  3. 3

    First to control the second ball earns a point.

  4. 4

    Rotate who makes the clearance every 3 reps.

Coaching Points

  • Do not watch your clearance — sprint forward immediately.
  • Arrive at the second ball in motion, not standing still.
  • Chest toward the play — shield the ball if you win it.

Variations

  • Add a second defender to create a more realistic defensive shape.

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