Small-sided game: Switch point of attack

WHY USE IT

This realistic, directional game sees both teams working on switching the point of attack through the central players. It connects actions from the first and second activities.

Set-up

Use two big goals, one on the edge of the centre circle. Use cones to identify three zones, across the width of the marked-out area, that players are responsible for staying within during the first round. Each zone will be 15-20 yards deep, depending on your pitch size.

HOW TO play

Normal game rules apply. However, for the first round, the players will be restricted to two touches and must stay within their zones. During the second and third round, there will be no restrictions.

progressions & ADAPTATIONS

• You can choose to leave the cones as guides, or remove them, for the second and third rounds.

• If the team is able to score directly after switching the point of attack, the goal is worth two points.

COACHING POINTS

• Focus on creating attacking shape – getting wide and high on the pitch to create width and depth.

   

• Movement away from the opponent will allow for more time on the ball.

   

• Adopt an open body shape to ’scan to plan’, in order to find the wide or high player as soon as possible when switching.

• Ensure one player remains under the ball to help enable a quick switch of play.