Some players have the natural ability to beat a player one-on-one, but don’t know when to use it or have lost their confidence. Others need the skill to be developed. Even if the player cannot get past his opponent by using this skill, he should at least get beyond the tackler to create “go forward” ball.

Warm up time: 7-10
Session time: 10-15
Development time: 10-15
Game time: 10-15
Warm down time: 7-10

What to think about

How close to the defender should the ball carrier be when he changes pace? There is no set distance. It depends on the relative pace and agility of the two players involved. It is very much a trial and error process for each individual to see how close they can get before accelerating. The closer the attacker gets, the more likely the defender will set himself for a tackle. As soon as the defender stops, the attacker can accelerate away. How can I get my players to accelerate well? They need to shorten their stride, lean forward slightly and pump their arms very fast. Use ladders (or cones) to enhance your players’ stride rate, which will improve acceleration and changes of direction.

set-up

1. Always be confident in your ability to beat an opponent one-on-one.
2. Use changes of pace to fix and then beat an opponent.
3. Get the ball in the correct hand so you can fend or protect it.

What you get your players to do

Start a ball carrier on the corner of a square. The defender starts near him (as picture 1). On your call of “GO”, the ball carrier runs across the middle of the square going in and out of the cones. The defender runs round the edge. The ball carrier has to score in the zone opposite. The defender has to tackle him. Picture 2 shows the technique required to beat the defender.