Translated from Finnish ·
Small-Sided Games, Transitions
Description
A small-sided game drill where the coach gives instructions on how many players from each side enter the pitch at a time. For example, "1 defender, 2 attackers". The defender(s) can start moving once the attackers have set off. The attackers queue with balls at one end and the defenders at the opposite end. There are two cone goals at each end. The attackers score by dribbling the ball through either of the opposite goals. If a defender wins the ball, they immediately attack the goals at the attackers’ end. The repetition ends when a goal is scored or the ball goes out. The players return to the back of their queues, and the coach calls the next numbers. Vary the numerical superiority, equal numbers and numerical inferiority, for example 2v1, 3v2, 2v2 and 1v2. Swap the attackers’ and defenders’ queues every few minutes.
Quality Factors
The player on the ball dribbles directly at the defender with their head up, and the others provide width. When the defender goes to the ball, the player on the ball plays a pass along the ground into the path of the free player. The receiver takes their first touch towards goal. The defender closes down quickly, shortens their steps in the final metres and engages side-on. After winning the ball, the player on the ball immediately dribbles forwards or passes into a teammate’s run towards the goals at the far end.
Key Questions
- Which goal are you attacking, and why that one?
- When do you dribble yourself and when do you pass to a teammate?
- How do you recognise that the defender is coming to you and not to your teammate?
- Where do you play first when you have won the ball?
Training Info
- 6-12 players
- Age Group: U9+