Build from the back

Practice 2

Set up

Mark out an area relative to the age and ability of your players. Place three mini goals at one end and a full-size goal at the other. Play 6v5 in favour of the focus team (including a goalkeeper) or include a number 8 in your focus team if numbers allow.

How to play

Your focus players (#1, #2, #3, #4, #5, #6 and #8) attack the three mini goals. They gain a point for scoring or making five consecutive passes. The opposition gains a point for scoring in the full-size goal.

Adaptations

You can change the size of the playing area to make it easier or more challenging for the focus team, depending on their level of success. 

Focus players could be further challenged by being limited to two touches, to encourage them to play quickly, support the play early, communicate effectively, scan and take a positive first touch into space.

Coaching points

• Body shape to receive – open hips
• First touch – into space
• Shape and communication – Ensure players are supporting in front, alongside and underneath the ball

Practice 3

Set up

Mark out an area relative to the age, ability and number of your players, with a full-sized goal at each end.

How to play

Ensure your focus team includes key players for this topic (#1, #2, #3, #4, #5 and #6). Play a normal game – either 11v11 or small-sided, depending on numbers.

Adaptations

If focus players struggle to successfully play out, limit the number of opponents allowed into that team’s half. For example, just two players can press until the focus team makes three passes or progresses past halfway. If successful, focus players can be challenged. Limit them to two touches to encourage them to play quickly, support play early, communicate effectively, scan and take a positive first touch into space.

Coaching points

• Body shape to receive – open hips
• First touch – into space
• Shape and communication – Ensure players are supporting in front, alongside and underneath the ball