3 yellows (1 on each side, 1 in the middle). 4 whites (2 on each side). 4 blues (all inside area). Plenty of balls ready to be passed in by the coach to allow for continuity. Size of area as above: 18 yds. [penalty area] x approx. 12 yds. The outside team (whites in this case) and the yellows act as one team and keep possession of the ball. Rules: Players must not be static. The team of 4 on the outside (whites) cannot pass to each other on the same side. If the team of 4 in the middle (blues) intercept the ball from a pass made by one of the team of 4 on the outside (whites), they must switch places as quickly as possible [quick transitions, expansive shape to compact shape and vice versa]. When switching places, the team must on the outside must press quickly to win the ball back [pressing in transition â counter pressing
Receiving [open body shape, receiving the ball across the body]. Which foot to receive on [front foot under pressure, back foot when not under pressure]. Opposite movements to create angles [ nearest player coming close to support, furthest player moving far to create width/depth]. Quick transitions [expansive shape to compact shape and vice versa]. Pressing types [cutting off passing lanes, pressing in numbers, covering the presser(s)]. Pressing body shape [showing outside, showing inside] Pressing in transition (aka counterpressing/gegenpressing) [speed of press, pressing when team has numerical balance]. Speed of thought [quick adjusting of mentality from in possession to transition to defending â uses all 4 moments of a match]. Scanning play [mental image of next pass or position].
This practice has no coaching points
This practice has no progressions
in more ways than one
sportplan_football
Set pieces account for roughly a third of all goals in football, yet many coaches spend surprisingly little time coaching defensive organisation at corners and free kicks. This article compares zonal and man marking systems, explores hybrid approaches, and provides a practical session structure for building set piece resilience into your team.
A player's first touch determines everything that follows: whether they can play forward, turn, or simply retain the ball. This article explores why training first touch in isolation is not enough, and how to design sessions that develop this critical skill under realistic game pressure.
The coaching methodology revolution sweeping grassroots football - and how to implement it at your club this season.
