Set out a 6v6 size pitch to allow players plenty of space to take touches and take on opposing players. In pairs, play multiple 1v1s. Attacking player must score inside the goal area to ensure plenty of touches on the ball. Defending player must try to make a tackle and then counter atack quickly. A tackle cannot be made in the opponents half so if possession is lost; player must quickly retreat back to their own half. Progression 1. Become 2v2s so there are more decisions to be made inc. whether to pass, dummy a pass. 2. Must perform a skill to beat opponent before scoring
-running with head up looking for space -close ball control -ability to perform a variety of skills to beat opponent -show speed to beat opponents -look to play a pass and move to create space
This practice has no coaching points
This practice has no progressions
in more ways than one
sportplan_football
Deliberate heading is now out of U11 grassroots matches. Here is how to coach chest, thigh and foot control so your players still win the ball in the air.
Long-range goals doubled at the 2026 World Cup as teams sat deep. Here is how to coach when to shoot from distance, the technique, and the follow-up.
Under FutureFit, your Under-9s stay at 5v5, your Under-11s stay at 7v7 and your Under-13s stay at 9v9. Same pitch, same numbers, one more year. Here is how to make sure that year feels like a step forward rather than a repeat.
