Warm-up: Breaking the lines

WHY USE IT

This three-part session works on improving players’ recognition and ability to break lines and advance forward.

SET-UP

Set up an area relative to the age and ability of your players. Split players into small groups of five or six. Two to three players start on one end cone, the front player with a ball. Another player starts on a cone opposite, about 18 yards away, while a further player is on a cone slightly to the side.

HOW TO DO IT

Following the patterns shown above, start with the first player passing to the player opposite. This player then plays a ball in behind the player to the side, for them to run on to - and the sequence begins again.

PROGRESSIONS

Progress the passing and movement patterns as shown. The first progression sees the original passer playing a one-two with the first receiver, before the same pass is played in behind for the runner off the ball to receive.

A second progression sees the original passer playing a one-two with the runner off the ball.

COACHING POINTS

• Encourage players to time their movement off the ball, so they are not standing still waiting to receive.

• Encourage the runner off the ball to make a movement towards the passer before spinning off, as if losing a defender.

• Players should consider weight of pass and taking a positive first touch.