Football/Soccer Session (Moderate): Switching the Point of Attack

4v4+2 to mini goals (15 mins)

Set up: In a 20*20 grid place a mini goal on each of the corners of the grid (four total). Divide players into two teams of 6 players each. Two players from each team are on the outside of the grid as shown in the diagram creating a 4v4 inside the grid with the two additional support players.

The team can attack any of the four goals around the outside. Once the attacking team has scored in one of the goals, they cannot score in the same goal again next time and must score in one of the other three goals. This is the case for everytime they score, meaning there are always 3 available goals open every time they score.

The can use the players on the outside if they wish to.

Coaching Points:

• Check surrounding area before and while ball is travelling to you to be able to locate the best space. This will determine where you will take your first touch
• Ball Retention - Players must attempt to keep the ball as either individually or as a team. Attacker will often need to position themself between defender and the ball.
• Need to determine the best time to turn and get by pressuring defender. Attacker should ideally turn with body between defender and ball.
• Players off the ball must create angles to ensure the player receiving the ball has options

6v6+3 with wide channels (20 mins)

Set Up: Use 9v9 field with 2 big goals on placed on the edge of each penalty area as shown in diagram. Create two wide channels from the edge of penalty area to the sideline on either side of the field (shaded area in diagram)

Play 7v7 with 1 GK and 6 outfield players for each team. Teams play with the following positions: both CBs, left & right back , CM, and Target/FW.

In addition there are 3 neutral players that play as a central midfielder and 2 wingers.

Players are allowed to go anywhere in the field of play but must play into at least one wide channel before they can score.

Progression:

1. If your group is doing well force them to play to both sides before they are allowed to score

2. Remove rstrictions but give teams an extra point if they play into a wide channel before they score

Coaching Points:

• Move ball quickly when possible
• Utilize shorter passes to attract defenders to an area then look to exploit space on opposite side when possible
• Team (and individual) in possession must also be aware of where the defenders are located to ensure longer passes do not get intercepted
• Outside player should look to join attack to create numbers up on near side, if defensive team shifts over to neutralize nearside, look to move ball quickly to create 1v1 on opposite side of field