Practice 2: Mastering the basics

WHY USE IT

This practice is a natural progression, where players can take the skills learned in the warm-up and perform them in an opposed scenario.

SET UP

Create a rondo grid of 15x15, with two small goals in opposite corners for the transition. Use seven players in total – four Red players on the outside and two Blues and one Red on the inside.

HOW TO PLAY

The Reds move the ball around the grid, keeping possession from the Blues. No-one can receive the ball unless they call for it. To score a point, the Reds must play through the central Red player. If the passer receives the ball back, the team gets one point; if the central player turns and plays it to another team-mate, they earn two points. If the Blues win the ball and play into either of the small goals, they get three points. Play two-minute rounds. Rotate the central players until everyone has been the central Red player.

COACHING POINTS

• Players on the outside will continue to work on correct weight and accuracy of passing the ball and communication.
• The central Red player must work hard to create space for themselves, communicate and decide whether to pass back, or to turn out and find another player.