By George Kee
Players at all levels struggle with switching the field of play. Often time’s players concentrate themselves on one side of the field and the ball does not get switched until possession is lost. This exercise helps players to develop patience when going forward, helps to develop a certain level of comfort in being able to switch play through the midfield unit, and helps players recognize the space created down the middle of the field as the defense moves side to side to cover the width of the field.
Players should look to exploit numerical advantages in wide areas but also not forget that as the defense shifts from one side to the other, spaces will open up to attack centrally. It is important that players constantly try exploiting the space centrally while switching the ball from side to side. Without this vision teams can get stuck playing a side to side game without ever threatening the goal.
Area Size: 45x30
# Of Players: 12-18
Time: 30 minutes
Set up: 45x30 yard area with 6 mini goals placed along each end line. Two neutral players will take up positions on each touchline with the freedom to move up and down. The players inside the area play according to positions so that adjustments can be made to train any formation. Here we have 3 central midfielders and 2 wingbacks but can also be 2 full backs, wingers, or outside midfielders depending on formation.
Execution: Each team looks to score in one of the 3 goals while playing with the neutrals along the outside. The wide goals will count for 1 point and the middle goal will be worth 2. This is done so that players understand that penetration though the middle is always the preferred option. As play develops, players will see that attacking through the middle becomes easier as the defense shifts from side to side. Play restarts with the defending team as to give the attacking side enough time to reorganize defensively.
As the ball is switched players should exploit the numerical advantage before the defense has a chance to recover. This can be done by playing a quick combination to beat the defender. Players should recognize the situation prior to the ball being switched and attack the defender with speed. Any delay gives defenders a chance to shift over and help.
• It is important that players in the middle keep an open body position, receive with the correct foot, and check their shoulder as to speed up play.
Players should be instructed to find the gaps in the middle as the defense is moving from side to side. If this point gets lost the attack will become predictable. Coaches should instruct players to appear as if play is being switched then quickly cut back in order to exploit space in the middle. This is the reason for having the center goal worth 2 points.
Coaching Points
• Keep the ball moving from side to side until space opens up to attack
• Look to exploit space in the middle as defense is shifting
• Open body position and continuous checking of the shoulder
Variations/Progressions
• Ball must be played to both neutrals before a goal can be scored
• Make neutral players Keepers who can use their hands
Originally from San Antonio, Texas, George moved to northern California in 2014 to take over as the head soccer coach at Lassen College. In his brief time with the program George has won an undefeated conference title, coached four players of the year, and won three Coach of the Year Awards.
