| Players | 2–12 |
|---|---|
| Starting space | 8 × 8 yards per pair |
| Suggested time | 6–10 minutes, including short breaks |
| Equipment | Balls, flat cones, bibs when teams are used |
Set it up
An attacker has the ball, with a partner applying gentle pressure from one side. No holding, pushing, or hooking legs.
How to play
Keep the ball within playing distance, place the body between the opponent and ball, then release through a free side of the square. Swap roles after 15 seconds.
Make it easier
Have the defender shadow without tackling.
Add a challenge
Add two exit gates so the attacker must protect and choose an escape.
What to watch for
Players hold an opponent with an arm. Reset and show balanced body position with arms used for balance, not restraint.
Take it into a game
Finish with a short small-sided game and look for the same ball mastery 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 SIMPLELook for space. Keep the ball within reach.
Practical suggestions to adapt to your players. This resource has not received independent coach or referee review. How our content is prepared.