Football/Soccer Session (Moderate): Creating Space

Creating Space (15 mins)

Organisation

Use half of a 7 a-side pitch.

7 players required (2v2 with 2 neutral players on teh wings and a neutral GK).

Aim

The aim is to practice the start and development of the positional attack.

GK passes ball to one of the 4 defenders (2 central players plus 2 on wings) who develops a positional attack until they cross the halfway line with the ball under control.

The two opponents try to stop them.

Coaching Points

- Exploit least defended areas using effective runs off the ball, quick thinking and decision making.

- Best areas of the pitch to exploit are opposite to where the ball is (length-ways or width-ways).

- To create space, the 4 attackers should:

* keep possession without risking losing it (play simple);

* changing positions to drag defenders about;

* use one-touch only whern there is no risk of losing it;

* running with the ball should only be attempted under exceptional circumstances.

- Central defenders without the ball:

* When WB has the ball, offer a diagonal forward (preferably) or backward pass, so that the defenders aren't too flat (easy to defend against).

* Move outside to cover the WB if he makes a run inside towards the centre.

- Central defenders with the ball:

* If under pressure, play diagonal pass back to other CB (less risky than a square pass) who has dropped back to receive a pass.

* If best move isn't possible, pass after visual agreement to the WB or winger who is likely to have more space.

- Wingbacks without the ball:

* if unmarked, stand on sideline;

* if marked, come inside for better passing options.

- Wingbacks with the ball:

* option 1 - play forward ball parallel to sideline

* option 2 - switch quickly to opposite flank (via CB if too risky direct to WB)

* option 3 - take the ball inside to the centre, away from pressing (can a teammate switch positions?)

Progression 2 (15 mins)

Progression 2

When the two opponents win the ball, they’re joined by the two neutral players on the wings with the

objective of scoring in the goal. Each goal is worth 2 points, and each piece of control on the halfway line is worth 1 point.