Football/Soccer Session (Moderate): Retreat or press SSG combination play

Screen 1

Set up: 40 x 20 area with two goals on the pitch, 3v3 plus goalkeepers. Each time the team in possession has a goal kick in their half, the opposition must retreat into their own half. Once the team in possession of ball has played their first pass, the defending team can decide whether to stay in their half or go press to win ball back. 

Progressions
Instead of a retreat line, the defending team can move wherever they wish from goal kicks throughout the game.

Attacking team must make a certain number of passes in their half before they can progress into the attacking half.

Coaching Points
Team Spacing – Team in possession, from goal kicks, are encouraged to create width and depth across the pitch, try & create a diamond as big as possible (including goalkeeper) this will provide you with a point at the top of the diamond, as well as a supporting player at the base of the diamond as well. The width created by the
players on either side will help to create space & give options to switch play if the team is unable to play forwards.
Body Shape Open body shape help players to see whole pitch to identify where their teammates are & the best space is. Encourage players to receive with open body shape with shoulders facing the way they wish to go.
Scanning – Players look to scan throughout the game to help them to see where their team-mates are but also see the opposition as well as the best space. Scanning will also help players to adjust their body shape based on what they see which will let them be able to make the right decision when in possession of the ball.
Passing Order (Breaking Lines, recognise when and where to play forward) – Encourage players to select the appropriate passing order throughout the game especially from goal kicks. This may be depending on your preference, playing the furthest forward pass possible.