Back-Four Press Escape
Press Resistance
Legend
- players
- opponents or partner
- ball
- core action
How it works
Play out from a back four under a two-forward press to develop foundational press resistance in buildup play.
What you need
- cones
- soccer ball
- scrimmage vests
Your focus
Modern soccer requires defenders to play out against pressing teams. Teaching press resistance in the defensive third through structured build-out practice builds confidence and technical skill in the players who are most pressured to lose the ball.
GK + 4 defenders in a 40-yard wide back-four shape.
2 forwards press the back-four from the front.
Back-four must maintain possession and play through the press to a central midfielder target.
Award 1 point for reaching the central midfielder.
If press wins ball in the back-four area, award 1 point to the forwards.
10 sequences; switch roles.
Goal
It's working when the ball circulates between the back four and escapes the press zone cleanly at least 3 times per round, clean exit, not a panicked clearance.
Helpful cues
- GK is an extra option, don't ignore the goalkeeper under pressure
- When pressed on one side, ball goes to the opposite side, simple
- Don't panic and kick it long, trust your teammates on the far side
Adjust the challenge
Make it easier
Strip it back
No forwards, just practice circulation without pressure.
UpLVL it
Add the next challenge
Add a third pressing forward, now 3v4; back-four must be quicker.No account needed
Build a practice plan
Add drills, keep the plan in this browser, then share a link with your staff or parents.This library helps you find the right drill. Inside UpLVL the right drill finds the player.
This library helps you find the right drill. Inside UpLVL the right drill finds the player.After every practice, UpLVL automatically surfaces the drills each player needs to work on most. See it for yourself.