Practice 1: Switch it up

WHY USE IT

This three-part session works on players’ awareness and ability to switch play.

Set-up

Mark out an area relative to the age, ability and number of your players. Ideally this will be 4v4. Place two mini goals at each end, with the area wider than it is long. Use cones to mark three equal channels as a visual reference.

HOW TO play

Teams play a 3v3 directional game, with a target player at each end. Use normal scoring rules. Play four-minute games, with teams swapping opponents each round.

progressions & ADAPTATIONS

• Coaches can incentivise switching play by awarding double goals if a team scores having had possession of the ball in all three channels of the pitch.
• If teams are struggling to create goalscoring opportunities, you can add a neutral player that supports the team in possession.

COACHING POINTS

• Be patient in your positioning. One player should keep the width – this also allows passing lanes to remain open to the target player.
• Short passing draws opponent pressure, to create space/overloads upon switch
• Ball pace is important to exploit space. Minimise touches to move the ball quickly.