By Mike Smith
“It’s not rocket science.” I’m probably not the only coach to use this phrase when explaining what to do with the ball to my players. Most times, I find myself using this phrase to the teams which are really good at possessing the ball, to the point that’s all they try to do. While possession is a foundation of the game, possession without purpose, and which doesn’t make the defense react, is many times trumped by a counter attacking style. Players should always be looking for the open space, both on and off the ball. Once a team has established width, and can link the width of the field, there will be forward space open. In utilizing the wide forward space, by default, a team has either, created a chance for an open service or moved the defense out of position. Using the width of the field again creates a dangerous situation for the defense and scoring opportunities for the attacking team. I know it’s like stating the obvious, but like I said, “ It’s not rocket science.” This lesson helps teach the idea of possession with purpose( getting forward / moving the defense) from building in the back, through transition and into attack.
Lesson 1
6 v 2 Across the Back
Set-Up
Place cones across the width of the field 20 yds behind the half line. Groups of 3 attackers play keep away against 1 defender, each group has a ball. The focus is on moving to create and use width as a product of possession. After the attackers have made 12 passes, one switches with the defender. IF the defender wins the ball they take the place of the attacker who gave it to them and that attacker becomes the defender. The drill is complete when all members of the groups have been in the middle.
Coaching Points
The coach should focus players on good touches, sharp passes and good movement off the ball as this is a great warm up for the next progression.
Lesson 2
Using the Length
Set-Up
The grid is now 50 x 20 up the touch line. 5 attackers plus a neutral target player work against 3 defenders. The attacking team must make 3 passes and then score by hitting the target player in the forward position. IF the defending team wins the ball they score by dribbling across the end of the box opposite the neutral target player. They can however use the neutral target player for possession support.
Coaching Points
The coach should focus the attackers on communicating and seeing the same space developing on the field as they create it. They are looking for the opportunity to get the ball forward. Just like in the first activity, sharp touches and passes are critical here.
Lesson 3
Width Again
Set-Up
6 attackers against 4 defenders plus the keeper 25 yards from goal across the width of the field. The defenders start on the 6 as the keeper distributes the ball out to a wide attacker. The attacking team can not attempt to score until they have switched the ball to the opposite side of the field. IF the defending team wins the ball they score by dribbling across the line of cones . Throw ins may be taken by either side on balls out of bounds, all balls over the end line are a keeper restart to the wide attacker.
Coaching Points
The attacker who receives the ball on the far side of the field should have multiple service options. The coach should help the serving player determine the best option based on the space created by the attacking side.
Progression
Removing the cones and adding two additional defenders and attackers makes this a great half field activity.
By Mike Smith
Currently the Head Coach for University Heights Academy Boys Soccer in Hopkinsville, KY , Mike is in his 14th year as a high school head coach with 23 years coaching experience overall and 34 year as a student and fan of the game. He holds a USSF D License.
