Double Plays Through a Defensive Pair

Focus

Attacking Systems, Defensive Systems.

Skills

Preliminary Moves & Passing, Defensive Moves, Vision & Quick Decisions.

Purpose

This is a classic 2 vs 2 drill requiring attacking players perform double plays down-court while defenders make things difficult.

Difficulty

Medium

Players

8⁺

Balls

Cones

Setup
Mark a playing field approximately 2/3 of the court in length, use the full width. Players form 4 equal lines, choose 2 players to start as defenders.
Step 1
All stages of this drill involve 2 attackers (A & B) performing give and go's (or double plays) down-court past 2 defenders (C & D).
Step 2
Stage 1: One defender remains stationary, however is allowed a single jump to intercept; the other defender can run anywhere

(A & B) work hard to get the ball to (E & F). If defenders (C & D) manage to intercept, they are replaced by the errant pair

(E & F) work the back the other way, with (C & D) defending again

If the defenders are out of position from the last contest, attackers should take advantage!
Step 3
Perform stage 1 for several minutes or until everyone's had a turn or two.

Replace defenders when they start tiring
Step 4
Stage 2: Each defender is mobile and patrols 1/3 of the court

Defenders must be in different thirds
Step 5
Stage 3: Both defenders can run anywhere

Sagging defence and double defence can make things very difficult for attackers. It takes great determination and deception to find space in this situation.