High press

A high press has a trigger. Draw the moment you jump, not a generic cloud of arrows around the ball.

Draw a tactic Tactical guides

A high press has a trigger. Draw the moment you jump, not a generic cloud of arrows around the ball.

The trigger

The usual trigger is a pass to the full-back or a slow pass across the back line. Circle that pass. The nearest forward closes, and the winger jumps to the full-back.

The cover

Someone must protect the center. If the striker steps up, a midfielder takes the space behind. Draw that shift. A press with all four forwards on the ball is a picture of a goal against you.

The trap side

Choose the sideline you want to lock. Show the touchline as the extra defender. If the press is broken, add one recovery run and stop.

Frequently asked questions

How do you diagram a high press?

Mark the trigger, the first defender to jump, and the teammate who covers the pass that breaks the press. Show one trap side, not every possible run.

What is a pressing trigger?

A trigger is the cue to step, such as a pass to the fullback or a poor first touch. Write that cue in the notes so the arrows match the moment you want.

How is a high press different from a low block on the board?

A high press is drawn in the opponent’s half, with the trap near their build-up. A low block sits in your own half. Save them separately.

High press

The trigger

The cover

The trap side

Frequently asked questions

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