On the half-turn – small-sided game
Three-part session teaching players to receive on the half-turn and break defensive lines. By DAVID PONCIA MORE
Attack the weak side – small-sided game
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
Set up on a half-pitch, depending on numbers, with two goals and two wide channels. We’ve set up with 8v8 + 2 goalkeepers.
HOW TO PLAY
Play a normal game but with added constraints. When in-possession, teams must occupy both wide channels, looking to get wide and exploit space as early as possible. Maintain the width and draw the opposition in to attack the weak side. Out-of-possession, teams must stay compact and narrow. One defender can enter a wide channel once the ball has entered. The game can be progressed by limiting touches, or by counting goals for double if a team uses both channels in the build-up, or if they score directly from a cross from a wide channel.
COACHING POINTS
- Width and depth
- Counter press and instant reaction on losing possession
- Maintain shape and stay connected
- Short passes and drive with ball to draw in opposition
1. When in-possession, teams must occupy both wide channels. A defender can enter as ball does
2. A goal counts double if a team can use both wide channels in the build-up
3. A goal counts double if teams score directly from a cross from a wide channel
