| Players | 2–10 |
|---|---|
| Starting space | 15 × 8 yard channel |
| Suggested time | 6–10 minutes, including short breaks |
| Equipment | Balls, flat cones, bibs when teams are used |
Set it up
An attacker enters from one end; a defender starts in the middle. Mark a target gate at the far end.
How to play
The defender protects the route to goal while using the touchline as a boundary. Win the ball only when a reachable opportunity appears. Rotate roles after each attempt.
Make it easier
Narrow the target gate or start the attacker farther away.
Add a challenge
Widen the channel so the defender must adjust their angle.
What to watch for
The defender leaves a straight path inside. Ask what line between the ball and goal needs protecting.
Take it into a game
Finish with a short small-sided game and look for the same defending decision without the activity’s extra conditions. Ask a player to describe one moment when it helped. Keep the next round simple if the skill disappears under pressure.
KEEP IT SIMPLEProtect the space, then choose your moment.
Practical suggestions to adapt to your players. This resource has not received independent coach or referee review. How our content is prepared.