Practice 3: Defence to attack

WHY USE IT

This phase of play helps players understand the importance of winning the ball when out of possession and transitioning at speed to attack quickly and score against the other team, who would be trying to get back into shape.

Set-up

Use half a pitch, coned off from the 18-yard box to the halfway line. Use one large goal at one end and place two mini-goals on the halfway line.

HOW TO play

Set up the defensive team in a 1-4-1 and the attacking team in a 3-3. You may change formation depending upon how your team plays. 

The attackers start with the ball on the halfway line. The first action is for the central midfielder to immediately shoot at the goalkeeper. When the goalkeeper receives the ball, play begins with the defending team trying to play out and score in the mini-goals. 

Both teams can score in their respective goals for a point but will be asked to score within 10 seconds of winning the ball back from the other team for the goal to count as double (two points).

COACHING POINTS

The defending team transitions as soon as the goalkeeper receives the ball, offering support. 

Centre-backs drop and focus on body position to receive. Full-backs go a little higher and wider to offer support to play up and out. Central defensive midfielder offers support in the middle by dropping off to bounce back, turn and go or play out to the full-backs.

Attacking team must try and win the ball back as a team by organising themselves and pressing as a unit, shuffling across and closing down options.

Striker press dictates the direction of the ball. Winger stops the pass down the line to force the ball inwards. Midfielder sits inside to mark the cental defensive midfielder and to intercept the ball with an overload.

Can the attackers get forward as quick as possible when they have the ball to overload the defence and create chances to score?