Football/Soccer Session (Beginner): Combinations

2v1 Attacking Decisions (25 mins)

Use a 30x25 grid and put gates at each end. Split the kids into two teams and have each team on opposite ends of the field. The game is initiated by one team passing the ball into the second team. The team receiving the ball will send two players and the defending team will only send one player. At this point the three kids on the field will play 2v1. They can pass or dribble through the gate to score. Be sure to switch sides so that both teams get a chance to attack and defend.

•What determines whether you pass or dribble?

•What space can you run into to eliminate the defender if you get the ball?

•What types of runs or combinations will help you beat defenders?

Coaching Points:

•Decision to pass or dribble (what’s the defender offering)

•Off the ball movement – how can I eliminate the defender with my movement

oOverlap

oDiagonal run

ocombination play

•Finding a space with a clear path to the ball

2v2s+1 (20 mins)

2v2+1

-Players play in their own half of the area

- Try to combine to score

-One player from the attacking team joins to combine with partners

-2 points awarded for scoring off a combination play (One-Two, overlap etc.)

Coaching Points:

-Recognition of available combination

-Timing, angle and distance of support

-Quality of passing

-One or two touch play