| Players | 2–10 |
|---|---|
| Starting space | 12 × 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 starts with a ball. A shadow defender begins two yards behind and walks for the first round.
How to play
The attacker briefly slows or stops the ball, then accelerates into one of two exit gates. Reset roles after each short attempt; defenders progress to controlled pressure.
Make it easier
Keep the defender passive and widen the exit gates.
Add a challenge
Let the defender start level and choose when to challenge without pushing.
What to watch for
The pause lasts so long the defender takes the ball. Use a brief change of rhythm, then move into open space.
Take it into a game
Finish with a short small-sided game and look for the same dribbling 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.