Back-Four Shift & Cover

Coach a back four to move as a connected unit: pressure the ball, cover inside, and stay compact and balanced.

A back four (plus optional midfield two) defends against attackers who circulate the ball across the top of the area.

1. Attackers pass the ball side to side along the top of the area.
2. The back four shifts together toward the ball each pass.
3. The nearest defender pressures; the next covers inside; the far side tucks in.
4. If a forward pass goes in, defend it live; reset and continue.

• Move as the ball moves — shift together, no gaps.
• Pressure, cover, balance: each defender knows their job relative to the ball.
• Stay compact — squeeze the space between the lines.
• Communicate constantly: 'press', 'hold', 'tuck in'.

• The line shifts but distances stretch — slide as a unit, connected by imaginary rope.
• The far-side full-back stays wide and leaves the back door open — tuck in when the ball is opposite.
• Players shuffle facing the ball when they should turn and sprint — recognise when the shift becomes a recovery run.

• Add strikers making runs in behind.
• Allow attackers to dribble and commit defenders.
• Add a midfield line to coordinate with.

• Walk the shifts through first.
• Slow ball circulation.
• Fewer attackers.

• The unit must stay within a set width of each other.