Practice 2: Playing out from the back

WHY USE IT

These mini-duals aim to encourage players to successfully pass, carry and dribble the ball over the halfway line.

SET-UP

Mark out an area relative to the age and ability of your players. Divide it into two channels, each with a halfway line. Each channel needs two mini goals at one end, and one mini goal at the other. 

Play 5v5 in one channel, and 3v3 in the other, with defenders outnumbering attackers in each half to begin with.

HOW TO DO IT

Players aim to complete at least two passes before trying to pass or dribble over the halfway line to score in the opposite half.

One player from the defensive half can join to create a 2v2 or 3v3 in attack. Players must play off a maximum of three touches in their own half.

PROGRESSIONS

Challenge players more by limiting them to two touches in their own half, or allow an out-of-possession player from the attacking half to drop in to increase the challenge for players trying to build out.

COACHING POINTS

Players should consider weight, angle, accuracy and type of pass. Encourage movement and angles to receive, awareness and scanning.

Ask the questions - where is the space? Where is the player? Change the picture by recycling possession until a forward pass or space becomes available.