Recover the centre after loss

Organise one presser and central cover immediately after losing the ball.

6 players · 9 min · 16 × 20 m

The animation shows one played situation with a decision and response, not a required pattern. Regains and restarts are marked schematically; stop unsafe pressure. Use grounded passes and low pushes; do not force a closed block or board route.

Organisation

Three against three, two mini-goals. A narrow central strip is an orientation aid, not a forbidden zone. No fixed positions.

Execution

Play freely. On loss the nearest player delays while another recovers between ball and own goal first. The regaining team may score immediately; observe its first safe pass without making it a compulsory rule. Restart out-of-bounds with a grounded sideline pass. Rest and swap teams after 60 seconds.

Coaching

Recover inside without crossing the carrier.
One player delays; the second protects depth.
Scan again when a pass uses the board.

Easier

Give the new carrier two seconds to control before countering.

Harder

Remove the delay and allow attacks through a clear board route.

What to observe

Observe five losses: were pressure and cover established before the next pass?

Equipment

Sticks, one active ball, spare balls outside the area and cones; mini-goals where drawn. Use a safe indoor floor and suitable boards. Dimensions and duration are adaptable starting proposals.

Formation and position role

2-1-2 · Central midfielder

After losing possession, screen the inside route as central midfielder or delay the ball carrier when you are nearest. Become immediately available for the first pass after regaining possession.

2-1-2 · Left back

On the left, take pressure or cover immediately after losing possession, depending on distance to the ball. Protect the centre when the other defender steps out and offer an outlet after regaining possession.

2-1-2 · Right back

On the right, take pressure or cover immediately after losing possession, depending on distance to the ball. Protect the centre when the other defender steps out and offer an outlet after regaining possession.

Sources and creator

doHockey exercise · doHockey

Game Understanding
England Hockey · England Hockey
Background principles. Background for the stated principle. Rules, wording, setup and animation were authored by doHockey; not a federation drill or endorsement.
Playing with the boards
Heino Knuf · German Coaching Committee · FIH
Background principles. Background for the stated principle. Rules, wording, setup and animation were authored by doHockey; not a federation drill or endorsement.

Published version 1

← All exercises