‘Keep ball’ and counter shooting

This session is about keeping hold of the ball and making good use of it in transitions (as we might do with counter-attacks in games). It involves keepers in that process and works on all aspects of the game, from basic possession to reactions and movement.

It’s not a session we need to run each week, but bringing this into training at least once a month ensures players are kept fresh. And it can be run at high tempo to keep intensity high and thoughts fast in the immediate lead-up to a game.

What do I get the players to do?

‘Keep ball’ with keepers

Setting up as shown (1), this is 7v5, with the team in possession able to use both keepers in the process of retaining possession. Keepers aren’t allowed out past the six-yard box but can use the full width of the penalty area. All restarts are from the coach.

1

Score or keep ball

We now remove the coned lines in front of the keepers. As shown, one team keeps the ball with the aim of making 10 consecutive passes and can use both keepers (2a). The other team, meanwhile, has to win possession and score in either goal using a maximum of five passes (2b). After six minutes we switch team roles.

2a

2b

How do I progress the session?

There are two obvious progressions we can put in place – limit the number of touches the players have, to improve technical skills, and increase the playing area to boost positional sense and movement.

What are the key things to look out for?

We want to see quick passes, early shots and runners make positive breaks forward. While being optimistic in the final third is important, players do need to show restraint – they cannot force the play too quickly, and better ensure passing accuracy by taking slightly longer on the ball. Staying composed is essential, though for that to be possible we must instil in players the reality that it’s okay to make mistakes.