Game version
Pair defense game: your pair defends a small gate and earns a point each time it stays shut. Swap attackers and defenders.
Pressure and Cover 2v2
Work as a pair: one presses the ball, the other covers the space behind.
By Coach Evan Waechtler Youth soccer coach (U11, Cache Valley, Utah) and founder of SSTracker Updated October 30, 2026
Set up
Mark a 20 by 15 yard grid with a small goal at each end.
Core: Jog. Beat your own best.
- Ages
- 11 and up
- Time
- 15 min
- Players
- 4 players
- Space
- Yard or field
- Bring
- Soccer ball, 4 cones, 4 players
- Level · skill
- Developing · Defending
The steps
How it works
- Mark a 20 by 15 yard grid with a small goal at each end.
- Play 2v2 at walking pace at first.
- The nearest defender presses; the second stands behind at an angle.
- Swap roles when the ball moves; play 3 rounds of 3 minutes.
Coaching point
Press the ball, cover the space.
Safety: Stay on your feet and play the ball, not the player. No slide tackles; any live challenge is only with a coach watching.
Make it fun
Play it, don't drill it
Challenge
Pick a level: Less (attackers walk), Core (jog), More (add a target). Beat your own best.
Story
You are two bodyguards guarding the treasure room.
My best
Beat your own count
Beat your own best. Only your own number counts: today against last time.
Practice makes progress
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