Football/Soccer Session (Academy Sessions): Passing and Receiving to play forward

technique work (ball to left) (10 mins)

Set Up: Groups of 8 to 10 set up as in diagram. The distance between the players should be at least 15m to allow proper movement and realistic passing distances.

Instructions: Although there are many different patterns that can be used, the basic habits must be used for any and all of the patterns. 1) movment should be realistic 2) the extra player at the station can act as a passive defender 3) whenever possible, have choice involved for both the passer and the receiver 4) pace and quality of pass must be realistic 5) pace and quality of movement must be realistic 6) play one and two touch only 7) the final pass is a penetrating pass. Players rotate counter clockwise after a passing pattern.

Coaching Points: Quality, pace and timing of the pass. Quality of the reception. Angles of passes and lay offs. Movement at speed. Body shape for both receiving and for the pass. Movement to receive the pass. Movement after the pass for all players (make it realistic).

2v2 or 3v3 to targets (15 mins)

Set Up: In groups of 8 to 10 depending on numbers, play 2v2 or 3v3 in the middle grid (20x20 to 30x30) with target players around the outside 5-10m away from the middle grid.

Instructions: Have enough soccer balls within reach to ensure continuous play. A target player plays the ball into the attacking team, they combine to try to possess the ball and find the opposite target player. A goal is scored when the ball has gone from one target player to his or her teammates to the other target player and back again without losing possession. If the defending team wins the ball, they attempt to do the same thing, but towards their targets (east/west in the diagram). Play to either a score or a time limit and then rotate the targets in.

Key Factors: Attackers must move to create space before receiving the ball. Qualityand timing of the pass from the servers. Look to receive the ball half turned whenever possible. Quality, variety and timing of the passes inside the middle grid. Quality and purpose of first touch (looking to play 1, 2 or 3 touch maximum). Disguise of movement and passes to set up ball to target. Think ahead.

8 v 8 Game (20 mins)

8 v 8 Game: Defending as a Team (20 mins)

Set-Up: Field is 70yds long x 50yds wide with a half-way line and 2 goals at either end. Two equal teams, with 2 GK's. Balls distributed beside goal to keep the game flowing when balls go out of play.

Instructions: Play 8 v 8 with offside in effect. Re-start from the GK when a goal is scored or ball goes out of play.

Coaching Points: Have a positive attitude - look to get half turned and to shoot early. Mocement to create shooting opportunities. Look to enter the attacking half under control. Quality of the first touch. Quality and technique of the shot (across the face of goal). Secondary scoring chances.