Defending crosses

This session enables defenders to learn how to best to repel a number of different crosses into the box. We test defensive strength against four different deliveries – an inswinging cross, and outswinging cross, a cross that’s laid back on the wing, and a second phase cross.

It’s crucial we practise this because, in matches, most goalscoring opportunities arise from crosses into the penalty area. Therefore, preventing and dealing with this threat is a key aspect in ensuring we keep clean sheets.

What do I get the players to do?

On a half pitch, there are two attacking wingers on each flank and, at each end, four defenders – two centre-backs and two full-backs – a keeper and a goal. Once each crossing phase is complete, it’s rerun on the opposite flank.

Outswinging cross

For this phase, the full-backs must stay in the box. The keeper plays out to the left wing, a winger takes the ball on, advances, then sends an outswinging cross into the penalty area (1a).

1a

Second phase cross

Immediately, the coach feeds the ball to the opposite flank as soon as the first cross is cleared (1b).

1b

Inswinging cross

Full-backs can now press, with the keeper playing out to a defender, who supplies a left winger. He checks back, then makes an inswinging right-footed cross into the area (2).

2

‘Lay back’ cross

Here, a winger touches the ball back for his team mate to make either an inswinging or outswinging cross (3).

3

Free cross

Finally, wingers combine to send over a cross of their choice.

What are the key things to look out for technically/tactically?

Defenders must ensure they remain in their designated areas, opening out to a 45 degree angle to give themselves the best chance of seeing what’s around them.

Defenders must be positive in their clearances, making a solid first contact that offers height and distance. They follow out, ready to regroup for any second phase crosses.

The full-backs’ task is to engage  wingers and restrict wing threat.

How do I progress the session?

In progression, centre-backs now handle the threat of active forwards, while wingers can create one-two interplays, which threaten to pull full-backs out of position.

How do I put this into a game situation?

The session progresses into a continuous 8v8 game, with an emphasis on balls to the wing. A full-back must defend well whilst also supporting his attacking winger (4).

4