Football/Soccer Session (Beginner): Positional Template

In possession - right

The player in possession has options to play to 10 running into space, playing to 9 who can turn and shoot or lay off to 10, 11 or 8. If 7 comes under pressure, the option of passing back to 2 or 3 can be used. 5 also has the option to run with ball if any space is created as a result of teammate's runs off the ball.

Number 8 can drop a bit deeper if required, or push forward opening up the option of a pass to 6.

Defending left

The key to the 3-4-3 or 3-5-2 system is the fluidity of the wing-backs to ensure there is a quick transition into a strong defensive shape.

When defending an attack on the left, the left WB adopts the LM position, the 3 defenders move to the left with the left CB occupying the LB positiion and the right WB going to RB.  The CMs move across to the left, with either 10 or 11 dropping (10 in this example) a little deeper.

Setting up like this provides many benefits.....

Midfield can remain compact, 6 provides cover for 7 and 8 can pick up a runner.  6,7 & 11 screen passes down the line, into midfield and to the CF.

The CMs simply need to move across to compress the play without having to cover the LM position, covering a shorter distance enables a quicker transition into a good shape.

The LWB can operate up and down the flank and has less distance to cover when defending the attack on the left.

The 3 defenders can move across quickly, the RWB has time to get into position as the attack is on the other wing.

The midfield have defensive cover from each other and the back four.

These benefits can only be realised if players understand their roles, show good awareness, communicate and are ready to cover a gap if a teammate is out of position.

It is important that 6 covers the LM position if 7 is out of position, the preferred option is for 11 to drop into the 6 position with 8 remaining in position, alternatively, 8 could come across with 10 dropping into midfield.  For all attacks down the left, it is important that the RWB drops into the RB position and tucks in if the ball clears the other defenders.

Goal kick - right

This is to show the player positions for a short goal kick to the right. A triangle is formed when looking at any 3 players.

Players do not stay in these positions after the goal kick is played, movement is required to find pockets of space away from opposition players.

The ball is progressed forwards through quick and accurate ground passes, good first touch, good weight and accuracy of pass is required.

The aim is to progress to the in possession picture for 

Defending corner left