Brave Play Between Boxes

Encourage players to become confident, creative dribblers in and around the penalty area. The aim is to develop bravery on the ball, improve 1v1 execution, and create a mentality of attacking defenders directly in goal-scoring moments.

For the Dribbling Team (Green): - Body Position: Side-on stance to shift weight and beat defenders - Close Control: Small, frequent touches to manipulate the ball under pressure - Use of Feints: Shoulder drops, step-overs, and sudden accelerations to beat a man - Protect the Ball: Use of body to shield under pressure - Positive Mentality: Look to attack space or commit a defender - Decision-Making: Know when to take on the defender and when to draw them for a teammate For the Defending Team (Black): - Delay the Dribbler: Force wide or into traffic - Body Shape in Duels: Low, balanced, and side-on - Cover and Support: Work in pairs to deal with dribblers - Immediate Transition Play: On regain, can we punish disorganisation?