Written by Dave Clarke
2v1 In The Final Third
This attacking drill works on overloads in attack with 4v3 in midfield and 2v1 in the final third – attackers can go 2v1 to goal but should also consider 1v1 with creative play. Good shooting is vital to the drill.
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Coaching Objectives
- When attacking the final third the attacking players can go 2v1 or 1v1 to goal.
- Attackers should be creative in the final third using body feints to fool the defender – the attacker must decide pass or dribble.
- When dribbling use the outside of the furthest foot to keep the ball from the defender.
- When shooting check the goalkeeper's position to see where the space is.
- In 1v1s the attacking player should get past the defender and cut in front to give a better shot at goal.
- In the middle zone teams must make use of the floater with good movement and support play.
Drill Setup
- 25 Mins
- 11 Players
- 2 Goals
- 4 Yellow 1 Red Bibs
- 35 x 25 y
What the Players Do
Play 4v4+1 with 3 players from each team in the middle zone plus a floater. One defender from each team should be in the outer zones. The attacking team has the Floater. Two attackers can…Battle For Possession In 2v2
Keeping possession in smaller groups is important during matches when sometimes pairs of players get isolated and need to protect the ball.
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Coaching Objectives
This is a technical drill that has players passing using good first touch, combination skills and shielding skills. Defending players use pressing and blocking.
Drill Setup
- 15 Mins
- 12 Players
- 2 Bibs
- 18 yard diameter circle y
What the Players Do
Two pairs of players battle it out in the centre of the circle trying to keep possession, the other players stand around the circle on the outside and the pairs can use the outside players to help…3v2 Transition to Goal – Play Out, Attack Fast, Defend & Counter
Attack from a GK restart into a 3v2, then transition quickly if possession is won to counter-attack.
Coaching Objectives
To develop attacking combinations, movement, and decision-making in numerical advantage situations, while coaching defenders to recover, delay, and transition quickly into counter-attacks. Players learn to react to cues, exploit space at speed, and recognise moments to finish or counter.
Drill Setup
- 20 Mins
- 6 Players
- 1 main 2 target Goals
- 2 sets Bibs
- 40 x 30 y
Technique Tips
- Attackers: open body shape, positive first touch, quick decisions.
- Wide players: stretch the pitch and attack at speed.
- Central player: fix defenders, time runs, and combine.
- Defenders: delay first, stay compact, protect central areas.
- Goalkeeper: accurate distribution and communication.