Time to make a break for it - Practice 1

 

WHY USE IT

 

This practice introduces principles behind transitional play (going from attack to defence and vice-versa), counter-attacking and pressing in a competitive environment.

 

SET-UP

 

Set up an area relative to the number and ability of your players, with a goal in each corner.

 

Split players into three teams – attack, defence and support. The defenders in the middle of the area (red, in our example here) should outnumber the attackers (yellow) in the middle of the area.

 

Support players (in blue, in our example) are spread around the outside of the area.

 

HOW TO DO IT

 

The central attackers (yellows) always start with the ball and aim to keep it away from the defending team (reds). Eight consecutive passes equals a goal. The central attackers can use the support players (blues) to retain possession.

 

The support players can only make three consecutive passes between themselves, encouraging them to play through the central attacking players (yellows) where possible. Support players are limited to a maximum of two touches, while all other players are unlimited.

 

The defending team (reds) try to regain possession and score in one of the four corner goals by passing through to a team-mate or receiving and turning through the goal. The coach should serve the ball into play to maintain intensity.

 

Rotate players’ roles each round (two minutes per round).

 

TECHNIQUE

 

This practice allows players to work on both short and long passing, quick combination play, tackling and pressing.

 

The attacking team and support players should be encouraged to move the ball quickly and create angles to support the play.

 

The defending team can work on pressing as a unit, communication and compactness.

 

When the defending team wins possession, they should identify the space to attack and score.