By Sean Reed -
Objective
This session is 3 games in 1. At any point within the session the coach can switch from one game to another. It will challenge the player’s focus, ability to manage the change of conditions and the ability to adapt their game.
Session 1
Diagram 1
Set Up
- The players are split into 2 teams (for example 7v7)
- The area is set up with a square 30-40yds x 30-40yds, with an end of approx 7-10yds each end and 4 goals in each of the end zones. See diagram 1
- Part 1 of the 3 games in a possession based game within the square area
- Goals are scored by a number of consecutive passes (specified by the coach)
- The game can begin with unlimited touches
Progressions
- Restriction on the number of touches inside the area
- Goals can be scored by playing a 1-2 around a player from the opposition
Coaching Points
- Tempo and quality of passing
- Awareness and movement to receive the ball
- Awareness and movement to create space for other players
- Angle of support
- 1st touch to open out
- Creating openings to switch the ball
Session 2
Diagram 2
[wpsharely id="1204"][/wpsharely]
Set Up
- As within the previous session
- Within this game the end zones are now introduced. One team will defend one end zone whilst the other team defends the other end zone. See diagram 2
- The pitch now begins longer
- Goals are scored by a player successfully running the ball into the opponents end zone and maintaining control of the ball
- Once a goal is scored the opposition starts with the ball, by playing it across the area (unopposed) to another player before coming out with it
- The end zone can be used as a safety zone (the zone they are defending) for the team in possession
Progression
- Restrict the number of touches
- Allow a number of passes to score a goal as well running the ball into the end zone
- Can only score by taking one touch to get into the end zone
Coaching Points
- As within the previous session
- Positive in possession of the ball
- Forward runs
- Support with width, depth and height
Session 3
Diagram 3
Set Up
- As within the previous sessions
- The next game now focuses on using the four goals
- One team defends two goals and the other team defends the other two goals. See diagram 3
- The pitch becomes wider
- A goal is scored by passing it through either of the two goals a team is attacking
Progression
- As with previous sessions
- Place a restriction on the number of touches
- Only 1 or 2 player’s from each team can be in the wide area at any given time (players come out, another player can come in)
- The defending player can only go into the wide area when an attacking player goes in there, otherwise they have to narrow up and stay central
- Only score with 1 touch
Coaching Points
- As within the previous sessions
- Timing of movement into the wide area
- Recognizing when to switch the play and exploit an overload
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.
Linkedin - www.developmentofplayers.com
Twitter - @SeanJReed
