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2v1 with Keepers

Drill Quick Glance
Age: 9-14 Field: 30X15
Players: 8+ Focus: GAME-LIKE
Difficulty: MEDIUM Time: 20 MINS.
Goalkeeper: YES Team
Rating: 0 / 5 Views: 1,686
Published: 3/17/2025 Author: Chris Johnson
Drill Objective

Develops attacking players' ability to exploit numerical advantages in a 2v1 situation. Encourages defenders to delay and disrupt play while improving goalkeeper distribution and decision-making.

2V1 SMALL-SIDED GAME, DECISION-MAKING, ATTACKING, DEFENDING, GOALKEEPING

A continuous 2v1 game with keepers that reinforces attacking decision-making, defensive positioning, and quick transitions between roles.
Drill setup
  1. Create a 30x15-yard field with a 4x6-yard goal on each end line.
  2. If no goal is available, use training sticks, cones, or markers to set the goal width.
  3. Divide players into two teams with alternate color jerseys.
  4. Each team defends one goal and attacks the other.
  5. Goalkeepers start in goal for each team.
Drill Instructions
  1. Play begins with a 2v1 attack in favor of the attacking team.
  2. If the ball goes out of bounds, possession is awarded to the first player to reach the ball.
  3. Players restart with either a kick-in or dribble-in from the sideline.
  4. The goalkeeper restarts play if the ball crosses the end line.
  5. After a goal is scored or the ball goes out of play three times, new players rotate into the game.
  6. Alternate the roles of attackers and defenders to ensure all players experience both attacking and defending in 2v1 situations.
Drill Variations
  • Time limit per attack to encourage faster play.
  • Limit touches for attackers to improve quick passing.
  • Play 3v2 or 3v1 to increase difficulty and vary decision-making.
Drill Coaching Points
  • Attackers: Use quick combination play, create space, and exploit the defender’s positioning.
  • Defenders: Delay the attack, force attackers wide, and anticipate passes.
  • Goalkeepers: Communicate with defenders and distribute the ball effectively.
  • Encourage fast decision-making and proper timing of passes.
  • Reinforce body positioning to shield and protect the ball.
Drill Equipment Drill Ages Drill Topic
Soccer Drill Titled: 2v1 with Keepers
Tagged:
  • 2V1 SMALL-SIDED GAME
  • DECISION-MAKING
  • ATTACKING
  • DEFENDING
  • GOALKEEPING
Published by: Chris Johnson
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