Football/Soccer Session (Academy Sessions): 7v7+3 with Target Players

7v7+3 with Target Players (20 mins)

Instructions:

• 2 Teams of 7 with central free player and 2 free target players. Area is age and ability dependant however approx 60yds x 40yds. 3 zones marked out for reference but movement not restricted.

• Teams shape up in system of choice.

• Concept is for team in possession to work ball to end player before retaining possession and going in the other direction. Defending team go to whatever side the opponents were not attacking upon recovery of the ball.

Progressions:

• Play must go through the free player

• Play must go through the 3 zones before hitting the end player

• 2 Touch, free players on 1 touch

Attacking Coaching Points:

• Team must be balanced in possession with distances between themselves similar providing options in depth, width and length.

• Be creative in movement to receive the ball or draw opponents away from space. Rotation, check-away, spin, stay-away, all valid movements in this game.

• Play with tempo in possession, the slower the pace of play the easier it is for the opponents to adjust.

• Work to move opponents away from space using a variety of passes. Short passes can be just as effective in creating gaps to penetrate.

• Support the final pass to the end player with further options on both sides of the field

Defending Coaching Points:

• Be compact in defending and work to avoid penetrating passes through the team.

• Nearest player should provide pressure directed by ‘2nd’ deeper player and other team-mates

• Work try and isolate opposition into 2v2/3v3 and force away from the middle of the field

• Be aggressive and quick in the press and win the ball when opportunity presents itself.