In this session strikers are being coached at both ends of the pitch – a striker must press the central defenders at one end, while at the other the strikers must get on the end of good passes to score a goal. It helps to develop teams to play through the thirds with an end product.
Set up a 50×40-yard area with a five-yard zone at each end and a 10-yard box at one end with a server. We’ve used 12 players including the server. You need bibs, balls and cones.
Split your squad so you have a server and a 6v5 overload in favour of the team starting with the ball. In the box is a 2v1 with two central defenders against one attacker and in the main area is a 4v4. The server plays the ball into the central defenders who combine to get the ball out of the square and into the 4v4. One defender can join the main game making a 5v4 overload.
Running the ball into the end zone scores a point. If the opposition win the ball they must run it to the opposite end zone to score. Restarts are from the server.
Players learn how to use the extra man not only for keeping the ball but for playing and running through a defence as well.
in Attacking, Email newsletters
When you play training games with your team if you have an odd number of players it is always a good idea to play a 'magic man'. This is a position of great responsibility because this player can catch the opposition out during transition or can be the player who creates goal scoring chances because he/she is less likely to be marked when the ball is transferred. MORE
Long passes can be a key way to open up an opposition defence or to find space on the pitch by switching play. A great way to help young players to spot longer passing options and to see beyond the first players in their line of vision. MORE
in Attacking, Small Sided Games
Obviously kids thoroughly enjoy scrimmaging and coaches can use games to teach players without them realizing they are learning. Not only does this game help players stay connected but also starts introducing finishing and expands players range of passing. MORE
Long shots often create chaos in the penalty areas of youth teams opening up chances from rebounds and blocks. Fire your team ahead by going long against tough opposition and score from the rebound MORE
It is important for young players to recognise when the ball is passed to them by looking up at all times giving them more chance to control the ball. MORE
Possession, passing and support is vital to creating the chances that give your team the opportunity to score more goals. This is build up play to shooting at goal. MORE
