Defending the Cross

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Step 1Step 1

Steps:

1. Start off with a two defenders in the box and a server on the flank with the ball.
2. The defenders start by running to their cone. As soon as they reach the cone the server crosses a ball into the box between the defenders and the goal.
3. The defenders must work backwards to clear the ball out of the box. The ideal place to clear the ball is high and wide or out of bounds (outside of the dotted white line). Any balls that are cleared inside the dotted lines will give the offense an easy chance to shoot on goal.
4. The server can cross low or high crosses to either defender. Repeat these steps 5-10 times and switch defenders then switch serving sides.
5. A good rule of thumb for clearing crosses is that near post crosses should be cleared to the near side and far post crosses should be cleared to the far side. Try not clear a ball across your own goal because if you don't clear it far enough it could lead to a goal.

Setup:

• 3-4 players: (2 defenders, 1-2 servers).
• 1 or more ball, 2 cones.

Variations:

• Serve balls from different positions in the flank area.
• Add an attacker.

Tips:

• The defender should be half turned in order to see the ball and the attacker.
• The defender should clear balls high and wide or out of bounds to avoid second chances.
• Both defenders should communicate and be aggressive in clearing the ball.