Protect Zone 14 — Screen Edge and Block Central Shot

A defensive unit protects the central pocket at the top of the box while attackers circulate around it. Defenders must screen access, step to receivers at the correct moment and prevent clean central shots.

Develop compact defending of the central area outside the penalty box by screening passes and blocking shots from Zone 14.
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10974658
Players
8
Duration
17 min
Goalkeepers
1
Equipment
Balls, Cones, Bibs
Difficulty
Advanced
Age group
U13–U18
Type
Defending

Organization

Mark a 36x30m attacking area with an 8x8m Zone 14 box in front of goal. Play 5 attackers against 4 defenders plus goalkeeper, or 6v5. Attackers score normally; defenders receive a point for regaining or forcing the ball away from the central box before the shot.

Coaching Points

Protect the central pocket before chasing wide passes | Screen the pass into Zone 14 with body position | Step aggressively only with cover behind | Block shots with balanced body shape | Recover inside immediately after the ball moves away

Progressions

  • Allow one attacker to start permanently inside Zone 14 as a target.

Regressions

  • Increase the protected central zone and limit attackers to three touches.

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