Defending Throw-Ins

Description

Players practice defensive positioning and pressing triggers when the opposition takes a throw-in. This drill covers how to deny forward throws, press the receiver immediately, and prevent the throwing team from progressing up the field. Throw-ins are the most common set piece in soccer and defending them well prevents easy entries into dangerous areas.

Setup

40x30 yard area along the touchline. One team takes throw-ins, the other defends. 4 attackers position to receive, 4 defenders mark them. Play restarts after each throw with the defending team trying to win and clear the ball.

Coaching Points

• +Nearest defender to the thrower should show tight and limit the forward throwing angle
• +Mark the closest receivers tightly — deny the easy short option to feet
• +Leave one player free as a cover defender to sweep up any flicked or long throws
• +Press the receiver immediately on first touch to prevent them from turning and playing forward

Progressions

1. 1.Allow the throwing team to use long throws into the box from the attacking third
2. 2.Play continues live after the throw — defending team must win and counter-attack
3. 3.Add a time restriction — if the throwing team retains possession for 5 seconds they score a point

Equipment

Skills