Written by Dave Clarke
Combinations in Attack
In the attacking third combination play is key to breaking down defences especially when faced with a low block. Clever combination play will catch defenders out making it difficult to predict where the danger is coming from
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Coaching Objectives
The important things to look out for in this warm up is weight and accuracy of the passing. When players move to set up a decoy to fool the defenders they must do it with positive movement to make the decoy look realistic. Players must be aware of passing routes and not block each. Speed of play is important so the move is not too slow and break down.
- Basic: Focus on simple passes and movement without time pressure.
- Intermediate: Limit touches to two per player to increase speed.
- Advanced: Add a passive defender inside the grid to apply light pressure.
Drill Setup
- 15 Mins
- 4 Players
- 25 x 10 y
Technique Tips
- Quick Passing: Emphasize the importance of quick, accurate passes to keep the play fluid.
- Movement: Encourage constant movement off the ball to create space and passing options.
- Communication: Players should communicate effectively to coordinate passes and movement.
- Positioning: Ensure proper spacing to avoid crowding and allow for smooth passing sequences.
What the Players Do
In this passing combination the four players start with two at one end and two in the middle of the area. Player A starts with a pass to player B and on that pass player C is the decoy moving as if to…Three Ways To Score
In this drill players are focused on creating opportunities to score goals under pressure in central areas of the pitch. Work is in a crowded penalty area with long shots and one touch finishes.
Coaching Objectives
One touch finishing and quick reactions to changing possession, rebounds, miss-kicks and a goalkeeper out of position.
In crowded areas like the penalty area the practice becomes high intensity and mistakes are usually about control of the ball. Encourage short, sharp explosive moments when a player has the ball and create a very competitive environment.
Look for winning 1v1s, good combination play and of course good shooting technique.
I want players to keep an eye on where the goalkeeper is positioned – scan the box, place the shot.
Drill Setup
- 25 Mins
- 11 Players
- 1 main 3 target Goals
- 4 Bibs
- 30 x 20 y
What the Players Do
Set the area in front of goal up as shown with two zones marked. Use 6 attackers and 4 defenders who play 3v2 in both boxes. There are three different attacks for the players to work on. Attack…Four Goals Five Players
Switching play is key, looking to create space and increasing the opportunity of scoring goals
Coaching Objectives
Switching play to find the space in front of the opposite goal with teams attacking goals on both sides of the pitch. Good passing and receiving and finishing skills.
Drill Setup
- 15 Mins
- 10 Players
- 4 Goals
- 5 Bibs
- 30 x 30 y