| Players | 3–9 |
|---|---|
| Starting space | 20 × 15 yards; target goal |
| Suggested time | 6–10 minutes, including short breaks |
| Equipment | Balls, flat cones, bibs when teams are used |
Set it up
An attacker carries toward a goal against one defender. A second defender starts behind the play to recover.
How to play
The first defender delays. The recovering teammate runs goal-side and covers the open space rather than chasing directly behind the ball. Change roles each attack.
Make it easier
Give the recovering player a closer starting point.
Add a challenge
Add an attacking support player to create a passing decision.
What to watch for
The recovering player runs at the first defender. Mark a useful recovery lane toward the exposed side of goal.
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.