Deny the Turn — Tight Pressure Between Lines

A defending practice where an attacker receives between the lines with a defender close behind. The defender must arrive under control, stay touch-tight without fouling, and force a backward or sideways action.

Develop a defender's ability to prevent an attacker between lines from turning and force play back toward the ball.
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94
Players
5
Duration
13 min
Equipment
Balls, Cones, Bibs
Difficulty
Intermediate
Age group
U11–U18
Type
Defending

Organization

Use a 20x15m central area with server, between-lines attacker, defender and two support targets. Server plays into the attacker; defender starts 1–2m behind and closes as the pass travels. Attacker scores by turning and playing forward, defender scores by forcing the ball back or winning it.

Coaching Points

Close as the ball travels, not after the receiver controls | Stay goal-side and touch-tight without diving in | Use body shape to block the forward turn | Do not over-commit to one shoulder too early | React to the first touch and regain if the ball escapes

Progressions

  • Allow the attacker to combine with a wall player before turning.

Regressions

  • Give the defender a shorter starting distance and limit the attacker to two touches.

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