Practice: Attack the weak side

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Improve players’ ability to recognise when to switch play to target the opposite flank.

WHY USE IT

This session aims to improve players’ ability to recognise when to switch the attack to target the weak side, and how to support the switch.

SET UP

Create a space with four squares and two end zones, relative to the age and ability of your players. Set up with 5v5 in the middle and two neutrals, one in each end zone (can adjust to suit numbers).

HOW TO PLAY

Teams aim to transfer the ball through the area from end zone to end zone. The in- possession team are restricted to their zones (except one player) while the team without the ball can move wherever they like.

Scoring - 15 passes = 1 point; switching the ball from end zone to end zone without losing possession = 1 point; passing the ball through all four zones = 1 point.

Progress to allow players to dribble into another zone. Once they’ve released the ball, they must return to their zone.

COACHING POINTS

Width and depth
Counter press and instant reaction on losing possession
Maintain shape and stay connected
Drive to draw in opposition

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Paul Butler, Florida, USA

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Rick Shields, Springboro, USA

"I coach both young club players as well as players at the High School level and both genders. The talent range is wide at times, however with the use of Soccer Coach Weekly I am able to apply the information to all talent levels and player ages and make the session fun and challenging for all players. It has helped spark me at times when I am at a loss for what to do at the next training session or offers a different approach to a current problem."

Tony Green, Pierrefonds Titans, Quebec, Canada

"My team and myself are truly enjoying the Soccer Coach Weekly downloads. Pierrefonds Titans are a great group of U16 Females who compete in the Lac St-Louis Association of Montreal, Quebec, Canada."