Practice: Attacking foundations

WHY USE IT

Now we are adding in more context for players by arranging them somewhat positionally. We are still helping them have high levels of success to build habits by including neutral players and a numbers-up situation.

 

SET-UP

Set up a rectangle of a size relative to the age and ability of your players. For our college team, we use a 15x20 yard space. Players are split into three groups (4v4+3) The three are neutrals - there is one on each end of the space with the third located centrally.

 

HOW TO PLAY

The in-possession team tries to get the ball from the neutral player at one end to the neutral at the other end, scoring a point. If the team without the ball wins it, they transition from defending to attacking by playing the ball to one of the end neutral players.

Set players up positionally so it mirrors a match. End neutrals can be centre-backs, goalkeepers or forwards, central neutrals can be central midfielders. Wide players can be full-backs or wide attackers.

ADAPTATIONS & PROGRESSIONS

Initially, end neutrals cannot play directly to the other end neutral. However, if teams are getting pressed into one end, allow a ball over the top to stretch the defence.

As a progression, require teams to play through the central neutral player to score.

 

COACHING POINTS

Outside players should be in a position to receive the ball to break a line. Have movement up and down the line to offer support. 

Have a good body shape to receive and go forward and connect with the other end. This will create space centrally to find the central neutral player. 

As defenders slide to press, play with the neutral player at one end to create space for a pass that breaks lines, like an up back and through. 

Neutrals in the center must focus on a good body shape so, as they find pockets of space, they can receive and play forward. 

End neutrals should look to combine with both outside and central players to attract defenders and then switch play to the free space.