Scan, receive, turn – Small-sided game

WHY USE IT

This small-sided game asks players to include the receiving, turning and scanning skills they picked up in the previous practices.

SET UP

Set up a pitch relative to the age and ability of your players. You can use full-size goals if you have goalkeepers and it’s age-appropriate, or otherwise use mini-goals.

HOW TO PLAY

Divide players into two equal teams. Play a normal match but encourage players to try receive the ball in space and turn to play forwards where possible. Players should aim to get the ball into the central midfielder or turn back the other way if the pass option is not on.

COACHING POINTS

• Stay on the ball if you cannot find a player.
• Movement off the ball: look for a better position
• Be creative