Through Pass
When moving up the field, using any different passing technique, pass the ball in front of the player receiving, releasing them into space which can help to create a quicker attack.

 

Defending (forcing the play)
Nearest player moves quickly towards player with the ball, angle the run to push them in a certain direction, apply brakes and stand sideways on, bend knees and be light on feet. Await players decision. Either,1) recover if player beats you 2)steal if player takes touch out of feet to accelerate past you.

 

The 3 P’s for goalkeepers when dealing with breakaways
Pressure- provide quick and direct pressure to opposition Position- get body low with palms facing the ball Patience- once pressure has been applied, wait for attackers big touch

 

Switching the play with speed
Receive the ball at an angle and side on from a team mate. Take the first touch with your back foot and ensure it stays close to your feet, changing direction and opening the play to the other side of the field. Your second touch should be the pass itself. The pass should be played with speed and must be firmly placed in front of team mate so they can move onto the ball. Remember this needs to be done with speed and accuracy using no more than 2 touches.

 

 Clearing the ball using a defensive header
Attack the ball at its highest point, leaping off one foot following moving towards the ball at speed with your arms at shoulder height and elbows flexed at 90 degrees. Extend neck forward then use your forehead making contact with the bottom of the ball enabling you to head the ball in a forward direction with height.

 
Controlling the Ball With the Chest
Be composed and relaxed when controlling the ball with the chest. Move forward towards the ball with your arms up at shoulder height for balance and protection. Have your elbows flexed at 90 degrees and bend knees. On contact direct the ball in the direction you want it to go. Be in control of the ball.

 

Playing the Lofted Pass from Defense to Forwards
On receiving the ball, take first touch away from pressure and use this to set yourself up for the next pass. When striking the ball looking for distance and air, plant the non-kicking foot next to the ball pointing towards the intended target, in this case the forward. Strike the bottom of the ball, leaning back when doing so as to get the ball off the ground. To allow for distance and accuracy follow through the pass.
 

Attacking the Defender in a 1v1 Situation
Approach the defender using soft touches, keeping the ball close to the feet. Attack the front foot of the defender, trying to unbalance them. Before reaching the defender change your speed and direction, faking to go one way by dropping your shoulder, and then take the ball the other, to allow you to pass them. Once past the defender, use bigger touches increasing your stride.
 

Keeping possession in tight areas
Use a low and wide body stance when holding players off in an attempt to keep possession of the ball in confined areas. Keep the ball on the furthest away foot from the opposition player using the outside or sole. Have your arm out for protection and balance in able to hold off any pressure and avoid turning into any pressure if possible.