Football/Soccer Session (Academy Sessions): Switching Play (Specific/SSG) Out of Possession

Session Set-Up (5 mins)

Key Factors:

The focus of this session is on Switching Play (Out of Possession)

Both teams set up in a 4-3-3 minus the Fullbacks & Wingers who are restricted to their channels, and can only play with the team in possession.

Organisation:

16-18 Players (GK's Optional)

6x Red Bibs

6x Blue Bibs

4x Black Bibs

1 Normal Goal & 2 Mini Goals for later in the session.

Full Width of the field. (Line from Pen spot to Centre spot)

Penalty Spot to Halfway line.

2 teams of 6v6(Optional 7v7 w/GK's) with 4 men along the outside.

These outside players will work as the fullbacks & wingers for the respective team

in possession.

Switching the play and Adjusting Team Shape

Key Factors:

In this Possession, ALL players must shift across to one half of the field that the ball is on, whilst trying to remain in thheir positions they would normally take up on the field in a match. After the team in possession reaches 6 passes, they will look to switch the play to the opposite side Fullback/Winger or through their GK who will then look to do the switch themselves. If the team in possession then receive the 1st pass back from the Fullback/Winger, their team will be awarded a point. Both teams will them switch sides, trying to maintain their positions and continue the sequence on the opposite side of the pitch.

Organisation:

Players from the Blue & Red Teams will be encouraged to use 2-3 touches, although not restrained.

Fullbacks/Wingers/GK's are restricted to 2 Touches MAX.

SSG (20 mins)

Key Factors:

In the SSG, it will be the Blue Team (11) vs the Red Team (7)

For the Blue Team to have a chance to shoot on the main goal, the ball much enter both Wide Areas before they can attempt a shot or cross.

The objective of the Red Team is the force them down one side and to play the ball backwards. Now with the defensive unit together, the rotation from the previous segment is at it's strongest and comes to fruition.

If Possession is won by the Red Team, they are to aim for the 2 Small Goals(Wingers) or to clip the ball in the GK(Striker) in the marked area.

Organisation

Half of the pitch.

10 Blue Bibs

7 Red Bibs

2 GK's

Full Goal & 2 Small Goals

There are no limits to touches from either team.

SSG (Defensive Shifting)

Key Factors

Important for the defensive line to regoup and stay compact as the main threat in through the middle of the park. Least worry is the furthest man away from the ball. Concentrate on the compact, defensive block and shift across when that scenario arises.