Game version
Pair defending game: two defenders against two attackers in a small grid. Defenders earn a point each time they force a pass backward. Swap after 2 minutes.
Press and Cover in Pairs
Defend as a pair: one presses the ball while 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
Play 2v2 in a 15 by 20 yard grid.
Core: Free play. Beat your own best.
- Ages
- 14 and up
- Time
- 12 min
- Players
- 4 players
- Space
- Yard or field
- Bring
- Soccer ball, 4 cones, 4 players
- Level · skill
- Advanced · Defending
The steps
How it works
- Play 2v2 in a 15 by 20 yard grid.
- The nearest defender presses; the other drops 3 yards behind and to the side.
- Swap jobs every time the ball moves.
- Play 4 rounds of 2 minutes.
Coaching point
One goes, one covers. Talk the whole time.
Make it fun
Play it, don't drill it
Challenge
Levels: Less (attackers use two touches), Core (free play), More (add a target player). Beat your own best.
Story
You are two lifeguards, one at the water’s edge and one behind, sharing the beach.
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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