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
Transition at speed – small-sided game
WHY USE IT
This small-sided game allows players to now apply concepts of the previous practice to attacking a goal, and subsequently defending.
SET UP
Set up a playing area relative to he age and ability of your players, with a goal at each end. Play 5v5 with goalkeepers.
HOW TO PLAY
On one half of the field, play 5v3 (outfield players). The team with five aims to keep possession and split the defenders with a pass into the other half. All players then move into the other half, where there are already two waiting defenders, to play 5v5. The attacking team continues to attack the goal, aiming to score. If the defending team regains possession, two players who were previously attackers drop back into the other half, and the new team in possession play with a 5v3 advantage – again aiming to break into the other half to try and score.
COACHING POINTS
Ball movement, player movement off the ball and quick passing to create the split, then quick transition into offensive half. Finishing, transition to defending, communication.
1. Start with a 5v3 in one half in favour of the team in possession
2. Possession team looks to split defence with a pass into other half and all players move over to play 5v5
3. If attacking team lose possession, they drop two players back into their defensive half
