Written by Dave Clarke
Central Midfielder Rondo with Counter goals
Possession-based rondo with a central locked player while defenders counter into corner target goals on regaining possession.
Coaching Objectives
To improve ball retention under pressure, central support play, and quick transition to attack/defence when possession changes.
Drill Setup
- 20 Mins
- 7 Players
- 4 target Goals
- 7 Bibs
- 10 x 10 y
Technique Tips
- Central player: stay on half-turn, always available.
- Outside players: quick passing, body open to field.
- Defenders: press as a pair, communicate, and anticipate triggers.
What the Players Do
4 attackers positioned around the outside of the square. 1 attacker locked inside a smaller central 3x3 square. 2 defenders inside the larger square. 4 mini goals placed at each corner of the…Midfield Creativity and Attacking Opportunities
Structured 7v7 game emphasizing zonal play to develop midfield possession, movement, and creating goal-scoring chances.
Coaching Objectives
This drill aims to improve players' understanding of zonal responsibilities, enhance midfield possession and movement, and develop the creation of attacking opportunities through coordinated team play.
Drill Setup
- 20 Mins
- 14 Players
- 2 Goals
- 14 Bibs
- 60 x 40 y
Technique Tips
- Passing: Emphasize crisp, accurate passes to maintain possession and exploit space.
- Movement: Encourage off-the-ball runs to create passing lanes and disrupt defensive structures.
- Communication: Encourage constant verbal and non-verbal communication to coordinate plays and maintain team shape.
What the Players Do
Team Formation: Team A: 2 defenders in the defensive zone, 3 midfielders in the middle zone, and 1 striker in the attacking zone. Team B: 3 defenders in the defensive zone, 2 midfielders in…Build-up Play Through Midfield
Play starts with midfield attackers combining with attackers to set the wingers free to dribble down the wing and get good crosses into the box. Focus is on midfielders and attackers linking up and communicating to get into attacking positions
Coaching Objectives
- Striker's move triggers midfielder to play the pass.
- Winger should time run to coincide with the midfielder receiving the ball back. If they move too soon they will end up having to stop and the move breaks down.
- Skills like the one-two must be executed properly with good speed of play and timing and weight of the passes.
- Good communication between the strikers to go near and far post.
- Movement of strikers and midfielders creates triangles of play which mirror the type of passing you want to see in a game.
Drill Setup
- 20 Mins
- 10 Players
- 1 Goals
- Half pitch y
Technique Tips
- Striker Movement: Encourage the striker to move away from the defender to create space before receiving the ball.
- Passing: Stress the importance of quick, accurate passes with the inside of the foot.
- Winger Timing: Wingers should time their runs down the line to avoid being offside and ensure they receive the ball in stride.
- Crossing and Finishing: Wingers should focus on delivering low, driven crosses for strikers to attack. Strikers should aim to finish first-time or control and shoot quickly.
What the Players Do
Set up with two attackers two wide players and a group of midfielders (depending on numbers.) The left striker moves back from the goal to the blue cone to get into position for a one-two with the…Continue Reading For Free
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