Monkey(Defender)-in-the-Middle
Game/Task Outline
Tactical Problem: Defending space in attack. Defending to delay the attack.
Skill development: Defending to keep ball in front, so no accurate passes can be made. Can be put into use when attackers out number the defenders. The defender in this game begins to understand that he/she needs to keep the ball in front until support comes in a full version soccer game. Offense hones dribbling skills and passing tactics within a small space.
Teaching Points: 
  • Defender begins with ball and passes to opponent in front.
  • Defender follows pass and attacks the ball carrier.
  • Give some space when defending the ball carrier, if a student defends too closely, then the opponent can use a fake and go around. Allow room so the defender can adjust and cover.
  • Offense must utilize tactics learned in previous lessons. On-the-ball skills (fakes and changes in direction) and off-the-ball movements (locating space, new passing angles, and force). Fakes can also be used when off-the-ball, if the defender is watching both opponents.
  • Defenders watch hips (Shadow Game) and eyes of the opponent, not the ball.


 
 
 
 

 
Organizational Points: 
  • Teacher can use same grid format used in the previous games (Grid Passing and Grid Passing and Defending).
  • Number students 1 to 3. #1's get a ball is the defender, the other two line up on opposite sides of the grid.
  • Rotation can only occur when: defender intercepts pass; passers pass out of the grid; defender regains possession of the ball.
  • If the defender can do one of these, then he/she rotates with the student who made the turn over.
  • Offense can not cross center line of the grid to pass the ball. Allowed to dribble around defender but must pass before center line.