By Sean Pearson
Area Size: 45 x 25 (2 x (20 x 25)) + 5 x 25
Teams: 20 mins
Players: 5 v 5 + 5
Objectives
- To move the ball quickly with fast paced passes
- Decide whether to play through or over due to pressure
Set-Up
Three areas, 2 x 20 x 25 possession areas for a 4 v 3 and a 5 x 25 Area for 2 defenders. Four neutrals on the ends and 1 neutral who is allowed in both possession areas.
Execution
The aim is to move the ball from one end of the field to the other using the neutral players. The team in possession, as well as the neutral players, decide what is the best way to keep possession and move the ball by looking at the defensive positioning.
The neutral that is allowed in the possession areas helps the team in possession to be in a 4 v 3 overload. The team look to play across to the other side, where 2 of their teammates are waiting to receive the ball. When deciding when and how to play across, players look at the positioning of the two players in the middle zone and pass either between or around them.
When the ball moves across to the opposite possession area, 3 defensive players (including the 2 players in the middle zone) move across. 3 players who play for the team in possession also move across as well as the neutral.
If there is pressure on the end neutral, they have the option to play long and over the top to either the opposite neutrals or the players in the opposite area.
If the defending team manages to win possession the players in the middle zone and opposite possession area switch and the new team in possession aims to play across to keep possession.
Variations
- Allow the neutrals on the ends to step forward if there is space to do so.
- Limit touches
- Only allow 1 time long passes
By Sean Pearson. Sean is also the author Coaching Team Shape in the 3-3-1, Coaching Team Shape in the 4-2-3-1 and Coaching Team Shape in the 4-3-3
