⚽ Defending
Small Group Pressing — 3-Player Unit
Pressing in isolation (one player chasing) is tiring and ineffective.
Small Group Pressing — 3-Player Unit — full pitch view
The one cue that matters
Communicating with teammates — who presses, who covers
◆Why this drill works
Pressing in isolation (one player chasing) is tiring and ineffective. Pressing as a 3-player unit — where the nearest player presses the ball, the second cuts the passing lane, and the third covers the space behind — is sustainable and dangerous. This drill builds the 3-player press as a repeatable
▦The drill in three phases
1Setup
Starting positions — players, zones and equipment in place.
2Action
Movement begins — players run, dribble and create the pattern.
3Finish
The end action — pass, shot or outcome the drill builds toward.
Ball carrierAttackersDefendersPass / dribbleShot
▶How to run it
- 3v3 in a 20×15m grid. Defending team press as a unit — the pressing player calls 'PRESS!' loudly.
- Rule: pressing player must call 'PRESS!' before touching ball. On 'PRESS!': second player cuts nearest passing lane. Third player covers space behind.
- 5 minutes pure pattern — no goals, just pressing shape. Coach stops and adjusts after each sequence.
- Progress: score by driving ball over end line. Pressing team earns double points for turnover in opposition half.
- Final 5 minutes: 5v5. Three designated pressers maintain unit pressing. Others support.
✓Equipment checklist
- Balls6
- Cones12
- Bibs8
✦Coaching points
Praise when you see
- Communicating with teammates — who presses, who covers
- Timing the tackle to win the ball cleanly
Correct when you see
- Flat-footed and reacting late — stay on the front foot
- Diving in and getting beaten — stay patient and jockey
★Kit for this drill — top picks compared
| Pick | Product | Best for | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Top pick | Training Bibs (10-pack) | Separate teams for shape work. | Check price → |
| Value | Marker Cones (50-pack) | Mark zones and channels. | Check price → |
| Upgrade | Agility Poles (set) | Build defensive lines & gates. | Check price → |
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?Frequently asked questions
What age group is Small Group Pressing — 3-Player Unit suitable for?
This drill suits U12–U13. Younger players focus on individual jockeying; older players add the cover and communication of team defending.
How many players do I need for Small Group Pressing — 3-Player Unit?
This drill works well with around 12 players. With fewer, reduce the groups or rotate players through; with more, set up multiple stations so everyone stays active rather than queuing.
How long does Small Group Pressing — 3-Player Unit take?
Allow around 3 minutes to set up and 19 minutes to run it — about 22 minutes in total. It fits well as the technical or main block of a session, leaving time for a warm-up and a game.