On the half-turn – warm-up
in Warm Ups
Three-part session teaching players to receive on the half-turn and break defensive lines. By DAVID PONCIA MORE
Attack at top speed – warm-up
WHY USE IT
This three-part session works on developing players’ ability and confidence in running with the ball.
SET UP
Set up a playing area relative to the age and ability of your players. They should have enough space to be able to build up speed. Work on an attackers v defenders ratio of 3:1.
HOW TO PLAY
Begin with a game of ‘Bulldog’, each player running without a ball. Attackers aim to run from one side of the area to the other, without being tagged by a defender, to score a point. If they get tagged, they switch places. Progress the game so as all attackers now have a ball each. If a defender wins a ball, they must dribble back to the end where the attackers started. They then switch roles. Coaches can reduce the space or increase the number of defenders to give attacking players a greater challenge.
COACHING POINTS
- Identify where defenders are and exploit space with speed.
- Encourage players to hit their top speed, even when the defender isn’t chasing them.
- Dribble the ball using the furthest foot away from the defender to protect the ball.
1. Start with a game of Bulldog, where defenders try to tag attackers as they run across the area
2. Progress so attackers have a ball each
3. If a defender wins a ball, they can try to dribble back to the attackers’ starting line
