Turn away from pressure · Choose another solution
The player changes route when the defender closes space, then moves away with control.
A starts with the ball in the middle; D starts two yards farther toward the two exit gates. Both gates are on the same end line.
A/B/C = attackers · D = defender · S = server · N = neutral · white dot = ball. Leave clear space between stations. Schematic, not to scale.- Players per station
- 2–3; use the planner for a whole group
- Space
- 10 × 12 yards per station; leave 3 yards between stations
- Equipment
- 2 balls per station (one spare) · 8 flat cones per station · Optional bibs; use agreed team/role names if unavailable
Set up, then show one repetition
A starts with the ball in the middle; D starts two yards farther toward the two exit gates. Both gates are on the same end line. Mark four corners and two two-yard gates on the far end using four more cones. Keep spare balls outside the near sideline. A third player alternates in after each attempt: attacker becomes defender, defender rests outside, resting player attacks.
- Start
- A begins moving; D may move on A’s first touch. Begin with D blocking a route without tackling.
- Score
- A scores by dribbling under control through either exit. With live pressure, D scores by winning the ball and carrying it across the opposite end line.
- Reset & rotate
- After a score or the ball leaving the grid, switch A and D. Restart from the middle with the next ball. Each pair has its own gates.
U9 starting lens: Choose pressure by readiness, then watch: The player changes route when the defender closes space, then moves away with control.
Rounds that fit 10 minutes
- 1:00 · Show and try
D closes one exit. A slows, turns away, and accelerates toward the other. Show continuing straight when the route stays open.
- 1:53 · Play 1
Try the entry version and watch the main behavior.
- 0:20 · Rotate, drink, reset
Rotate roles as described. Take water when needed; shorten play instead of rushing the break.
- 1:53 · Play 2
Repeat the starting picture from the other side. Let the player choose a different useful route; do not require a particular foot or move. D points to the blocked gate before A starts and stays still. Progress only when useful: D can change the route they close and win the ball after A’s first touch.
- 0:20 · Rotate, drink, reset
Rotate roles as described. Take water when needed; shorten play instead of rushing the break.
- 1:52 · Play 3
Repeat the starting picture from the other side. Let the player choose a different useful route; do not require a particular foot or move. D points to the blocked gate before A starts and stays still. Progress only when useful: D can change the route they close and win the ball after A’s first touch.
- 0:20 · Rotate, drink, reset
Rotate roles as described. Take water when needed; shorten play instead of rushing the break.
- 1:52 · Play 4
Repeat the starting picture from the other side. Let the player choose a different useful route; do not require a particular foot or move. D points to the blocked gate before A starts and stays still. Progress only when useful: D can change the route they close and win the ball after A’s first touch.
- 0:30 · Notice and move on
Invite one example or gesture, collect balls safely, and move to the next activity.
If it breaks down
- The turn runs into the same defender: slow the approach and begin with a bigger gap before increasing pressure.
- Players cannot explain the objective: show one repetition with their roles, then remove one extra condition.
Make it easier
D points to the blocked gate before A starts and stays still.
Add a stretch
D can change the route they close and win the ball after A’s first touch.
Safety & involvement
Check the surface and clearance around the grid. No pushing, holding, slide tackles, or challenges from behind. Begin with no-contact route blocking; allow clean ball-winning pressure only when players can control the approach. Stop play before retrieving a ball from another station.
Every player has a named role. Rotate through all roles, keep explanations between rounds, and offer a quieter demonstration or gesture response. Water and individual breaks are available whenever needed.
Learn the activity: demonstration, decision pictures & observation
Show this first
D closes one exit. A slows, turns away, and accelerates toward the other. Show continuing straight when the route stays open.
See one repetition before you explain it.
The movement, pressure, and coaching cue change together. Pause on any picture or select a step below.
Why this problem
A starts with the ball in the middle; D starts two yards farther toward the two exit gates. Both gates are on the same end line. The available space and target create a reason to act. Judge the choice in context: A turn on command does not establish recognition of pressure.
Ask or invite a demonstration
What told you to turn?
Look in the next game
The player changes route when the defender closes space, then moves away with control. Watch a few opportunities for two players; record the situation and choice rather than a head-turn or touch total.
Optional home game
Choose two safe landmarks. Dribble toward one, turn comfortably before it, and move toward the other. A partner can point to a closed route; alone, alternate routes.
Use the same problem differently
Repeat a useful version; change one constraint when players are ready.