Pressing and covering – Small-Sided Game

WHY USE IT

This small-sided game enables players to develop concepts of pressing and covering in a match situation.

SET UP

Divide players into teams of eight, including goalkeepers. Mark out a fairly narrow pitch and split it into thirds.

HOW TO PLAY

Play a normal small-sided game. Both teams set up 3-2-2 in possession and a 1-4-2 out of possession. If the out-of-possession team wins the ball back in their attacking third, a goal scored then counts double. The final third line also acts as an offside line. The pitch is intentionally narrow to force forward passes to provide repetition for the out-of- possession team in trying to prevent these.

COACHING POINTS

• Two centre-forwards must block passes through the centre
• Units should work on spacing, shifting with the play and shape
• Fast attacking transition

1. Two teams play on a pitch divided into thirds

2. Teams aim to play and score as normal

3. If a team wins possession back in their attacking third and scores, the goal counts double