By Alex Trukan
This practice is aimed at developing explosive power and acceleration. This physical quality is crucial when competing in 1v1 duels, sprinting to win the ball or chasing the striker. In this practice, conditioning element is combined with 1v1 duel as well as technical ability to turn and finish. It is highly engaging and competitive practice which can be adapted to suit almost all the age groups and ability levels. It can be also progressed into more tactical scenarios of 2v2 or 3v3.
Set-Up and Directions
Organise an area of 30 x 30 yards. Set up two goals on the opposite ends and organise goalkeepers. Prepare two squares 5x5 yards in the opposite corners of the area. Place one ball in each of the two squares. Divide the team into pairs. Starting positions for the pairs is at the endline, opposite to the square with a ball as shown on the diagram below. Prepare a sufficient supply of balls to ensure flow of the practice.
The practice starts on a coach’s signal. First pair from each end competes in a race to the ball. The aim of both players is to get there first.
The first player to the ball becomes attacker, second one starts as a defender. The attacker tries to turn, beat a defender in a 1v1 situation and score in the opposite goal. If the defender wins the ball, his aim is to dribble the ball back into the square.
The game continues until the goal is scored, but no longer than 6 seconds. Players stay at the same end after each repetition. Goalkeeper or coach gets another ball ready in the square.
Timing
Each player should complete 4-6 repetitions in 1-2 series. The rest period between repetitions should be 1 minute and between series – 4 minutes.
Variations
- 2v2/3v3
- Have to make 3 touches in the square before going towards the goal
- Extend/reduce the distance between the goal and the square
By Alex Trukan, Development Coach, Nottingham Forest
@AlexTrukan
