In this practice the coach setup the players in two banks of four. The reds are all gives an alphabetical letter e.g. A,B,C,D. Whilst the yellow are given a number each 1,2,3,4. The coach will then decide which team has possession of the ball e.g. Reds or yellows.
The coach will then shout a pairing such as “D3” Or “A2” this will bring player A and player 2 into a 1v1 battle. This will create random situations such as a wide player attacking a central player or a central player attacking a wide defender. It will also force the defenders to instinctively defend and see if the information and technical detail passed on has become prevalent in their defensive technique. 

BEING AWARE

Something that isn’t mentioned very often as a technical point for defending players is awareness, it is a fundamental factor is being able to react quickly to changing circumstances in 1v1 situations. Whenever we are in realistic situations we are challenged with multiple different decisions and the earlier we are able to understand the situation, the greater opportunity we have to be able to make effective and calm decisions.

In this example  we are forcing players to make decisions constantly with the randomness of the practice. It is common to see very static and decision limiting technique practices. But this goes against some of the neuroscience knowledge that has been shared in the game. We know players develop more neural pathways when they are challenged with variety.
As mentioned this variety is of a paramount importance to defenders, this practice will develop players who are more comfortable making their own decisions and understanding what goes into making an effective decision 

Attacking space, no defensive session is fit without attacking purpose. Here we are looking for the attackers to be dynamic and attacking in 1v1 moments. 

Encourage influential individuals to try and influence those around them with encouragement and collective effort