Turn on the switch – Small-Sided Game

WHY USE IT

This three-part session develops players’ awareness and ability to switch the play in the creative phase, with the aim of creating gaps in the opposition’s defence to play a killer central pass, creating goalscoring opportunities.

 

SET UP

Set up a wide and short area with two end zones. Teams play 5v5.

 

HOW TO PLAY

Teams compete to score by passing the ball to a team-mate to receive in their attacking end zone. Players should treat the end-zone as an offside line, so cannot be in the end zone before the ball is played. The game can be progressed by limiting the number of touches the team in possession has.

 

COACHING POINTS

Encourage the team in possession to create width and depth, with quick movement of the ball and fast transitions. One attacking player should always be underneath the ball to enable a switch. Remain patient in possession and pick the right time to split the defence. Quick combination play, receiving on the back foot and open body shape will all be important.

1. Play 5v5 with end zones

2. The team in possession should create width and depth, with a player underneath the ball to switch play

3. Teams score by a player receiving the ball in the end zone