A defence-versus-attack transition game (adapted from Soccer Drive). Three attackers try to break down three defenders and score; the coach feeds the ball in to start and joins the attack, so it plays 4v3. Win it back and the defenders play out to the coach, then counter.
Young (U5 to U8)Mid (U9 to U13)Older (U14 to U18)DefendingPossessionAttacking playPassing & receivingShooting & finishingGoalkeepingFitness & movementDribbling & 1v1Ball mastery
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In play
The setup
Step by step
1
The coach/player feeds the ball in to start the attack.
2
Three attackers try to break the defence down and score.
3
Three defenders protect the goal and try to win the ball back.
4
Win it back and the defenders play out to the small goals.
Age group
Young (U5 to U8), Mid (U9 to U13), Older (U14 to U18)
Duration
15 to 20 mins
Players
8: a keeper, three defenders, three attackers and a feeder
Area
Half a pitch, attacking one goal
Equipment
A goal and keeper, two small goals for the counter, bibs in two colours, and a supply of balls
FA Four Corners: what this develops
Technical / TacticalPsychologicalPhysicalSocial
Objective
Break down a compact defence with quick, first-time passing and movement in behind, and finish; defenders stay compact, win it and counter.
Set up
Half a pitch, attacking one goal with a keeper. Three defenders protect the goal; three attackers start deeper; the coach feeds the ball in from behind the play. The attackers must play off the coach (so 4v3) before they can shoot; when the defenders win it, they do the same before countering.
Coaching points
Play forward quickly, first-time passes to break the defensive line
Move off the ball, peel round the back of a defender to get in behind
Use the width, the wingers stretch the defence and get to the back post
Defenders stay compact and shift together towards the ball, delay then win it
On winning the ball, counter fast into the small goals
Progressions
Limit the attackers to two touches, then one, to force quick combinations
Put a time limit on scoring (say 10 seconds) to raise the tempo
Make the feeder a one-touch wall only, so the attackers create the chance themselves
Play a second ball in straight after a shot, to train the transition
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