By Sean Reed -
Objective
I have continued from my last session focusing on scenarios. For this session I am focusing on changing the pitch and I have used different examples of how this might occur.
The main focus is that the players are presented with a problem and they are required to solve it. They need to manage the plan according to what they are working towards, communicate, work together and adapt to the changing environment.
Set Up – Scenario 1
• 2 teams (can be with any number of players
• Team 1(Black Bibs) have 8 players
• Team 2 (Red Bibs) have 7 players
You create the scenario: Team 2 has had an injury or a player sent off
• Score is 0-0
• Team 1 have to win the game
• Team 2 with less players can’t afford to lose, but can either win or draw
• Provide the teams with 30secs – 1min to plan how they choose to manage the game
• The game is 10mins
• The pitch is shallow and wide, very much about defending your area
• The balls are positioned around the pitch so as to get the ball back into play quickly
Some Coaching Points
• Getting up to the ball
• Blocking shots
• Being responsible for players / space
• Strategy and game plan
Set Up – Scenario 2
• As with the previous session
• On this occasion the pitch dimensions have changed. The pitch remains the same length, but has been narrowed up
• You can keep the score line as previously, or changed to challenge the players in different ways
Progressions
• Within 1 period of the game, the pitch size can change from one to the other. This is dictated by the coach. Place an additional line (flat cones) to enable that change to occur
• The focus for the players will be to manage the change and manage the space available whether in or out of position
• This might change their strategy or game plan
• The main thing is the players take a lead role and manage the game
Some Coaching Points
• As with the previous session
• Using the time available
• Managing situations – if the score line changes
• Managing the emotions and the supporting of players
• Being brave when required
By Sean Reed
Former First Team Coach of Championship side Fulham FC. Sean is a UEFA A Coach with a Masters in Sport Coaching. He has over 15 years of experience working in professional football from Academy through to First team in the Premiership and Championship.
Web - www.seanjreed.com
Twitter - @SeanJReed
