Compass Keepaway 4v1
Four outside players protect the ball in a compact square while one defender presses; each pass should move the defender and reveal the next support angle.
- 12 min
- 5–8 players
Drill · U15
Skip the Pressing Line
An outer group draws a presser towards the ball, then looks past the remaining screen to transfer directly to the far group.
- Duration
- 12 min
- Players
- 8–16 (ideal 8)
- Passing
- Possession
- Scanning
Setup
Step 1 of 2
One complete 8-player group is shown. Three support players occupy each outer zone. One red presser joins the ball’s outer zone; the second red player screens from the middle. Start on the left; only the ball crosses the middle.
Coaching points
- Setup: Three support players occupy each outer zone. One red presser joins the ball’s outer zone; the second red player screens from the middle. Start on the left; only the ball crosses the middle.
- Play: Outer players circulate until a direct ground pass to the opposite support group is available. A controlled far reception scores one. The screen becomes the next presser in the far zone; the old presser returns to the middle. A red interception ends the repetition.
- Reset and rotation: Restart from the opposite end after an interception or ball out. Every 45 seconds swap both red roles with two support players, taking turns through all six support positions over later bouts.
- Numbers: The diagram shows 8 players. With up to 16, use a second complete group in a separate area. Odd spare players rest off the area and rotate into a playing role every 45 seconds; everyone has equal turns.
- Coach focus: Use a short pass to draw the presser, then look beyond the screen. The far group must offer separated receiving angles.
- Safety: Controlled ground transfers; defenders intercept rather than tackle. Only one presser enters an outer zone; no supporter runs through the screen zone.
Equipment
- Ball · 2 per group, including a spare
- Flat Marker · 8 per group for field and zone corners, in addition to pictured markers
- Bib · 8 per group; colours match the pictured roles
Progressions
- Easier The presser walks and the screen stays centrally until players recognise the transfer route.
- Harder The far group changes its receiving angles before the transfer; the passer must reassess the screen instead of using a memorised route.
