Key skill: shielding the ball

Jargon buster – shielding the ball A player who is shielding the ball is standing still and keeping the ball away from her opponents until an opportunity arises to pass or shoot.

Timid players look as though they don't want the ball to come to them in a match and if it does they tend to get rid of it as quickly as possible (the "hot potato" syndrome). This doesn't encourage their team mates to pass to them so they often end up wandering around the field looking lost.
You need to show them how to shield the ball from pressure.
Key coaching points:
You, the ball and your opponent should make a "sandwich" with you in the middle.

• Lean into your opponent a little but be careful not to overdo it or you will lose control of the ball and possibly commit a foul.

• Look up to see what passing options are available.

Note: encourage your players to control the ball with the sole of their foot. That way they know exactly where the ball is without looking and it's easier to keep it close to their body.
How to practise shielding the ball
1. Place your players in pairs. The first player has a ball and stands with their feet spread about a shoulder width apart. The second player has 20 seconds to touch the ball by any fair means (ie. no pushing or kicking from behind) or they lose the round. Change the players over regularly.
2. Play a small-sided game (3v3 or 4v4) with the condition the only way to advance the ball is to pass it – no dribbling. Allow your players one or two steps to control the ball then they must stand still. This means they must practise shielding the ball in a match-like situation. It also encourages the team mates of the ball carrier to move into good supporting positions.
Final word: players will, inevitably, look timid if they don't have the tools they need to overcome their natural fear of getting hurt or letting down their team mates.
Our job is to give our 'timid' players those tools and praise them for using them.
The resulting boost to their self-confidence may not turn them them into tigers but it will certainly make match days more enjoyable for them and it could improve their lives in other areas too.