Practice 3: Beating a low block

WHY USE IT

This session develops players’ understanding of problem-solving on the pitch around breaking down a low block. It also develops understanding of how individual roles on the pitch change when playing against a low block.

Set-up

Mark out an area relative to the age and ability of your players, with a central full-size goal and two wider mini goals at one end and a target area at the other. Mark out two wide channels. Divide players into two equal teams.

HOW it works

Attackers start with the ball every time. Defenders set up in a low block, in a 4-4-2 formation, and try to limit space and force errors. If they win the ball back, they try to dribble the ball into the target box. 

Attackers have to play at least 10 passes before they are allowed to attack - and when they do, they need to attack in wide areas. Award:

•    1 point if they score in the mini-goals in the wide channels.

•    2 points If they attack in wide areas and then go back inside (e.g. from a cross) to score in the big goal.

Progress the practice by removing the minimum pass requirement.

COACHING POINTS

•    Attackers need to be patient in possession and try to switch the play to move the defenders out of shape.
•    When the defenders are out of shape, can they attack at speed and create wide overloads? 
•    Wingers need to create width.
•    Can they play between defenders and the two banks of four?