Whole 2: Keep ball and attack

WHY USE IT

 

This whole-part-whole session encourages players to retain possession and also to recognise when to keep the ball and when to play forward and attack. This session can be used to develop and affect groups, units and individuals.

 

SET-UP

 

Set up a playing area relative to the age and ability of your players. Divide the pitch into thirds, with the middle third split further into quarters.

 

Set teams up – if numbers allow – in a 1-2-3-1 formation.

 

HOW TO DO IT

 

Return to the ‘whole’ part of the session, where players can now move freely around the pitch in a more game-realistic environment.

 

Normal game rules apply.

 

Players should now be looking to implement the things they have learnt and developed in the ‘part’ section within the game..

 

COACHING POINTS

 

Group: Recognise when to play forward and when to play safe.

Defenders: Can you find the striker’s feet early, when the pass is on?

Midfielders: If you can’t play forward, can you play to someone who can.

Forwards: Try to let your defenders see your feet.

 

ADAPATIONS/ PROGRESSIONS

Coaches can further challenge players by setting individual or unit challenges, depending on the needs of the players.

 

Examples of this include challenging a midfielder to create space to enable their forward to receive the ball, or encouraging them to disguise their final pass, or challenging players to pass with a different part of their foot.