Small-sided game: Playing it out

Why use it

This small-sided game rewards effective play through the thirds.

Set up

Mark out an area relative to the age, ability and number of your players. Divide the pitch into thirds and split players into two equal teams, including goalkeepers.

How to play

Play a small-sided game, with the aim of playing out from the defensive third to the attacking third, via the middle third. Teams don’t have to do this, they should be encouraged to problem-solve in the moment. But goals count double if they are successful. If the out-of-possession team wins the ball in their attacking third and scores, the goal counts for double.

Progressions/adaptations

You can introduce a touch limit.

Coaching points

Encourage players to be patient in possession and play the pass they see. Players should scan and receive with an open body to allow them to play forward where possible. Encourage quick combination play in central areas and a switch of play via the centre-backs. Timing of movement and weight of pass are also important.