ACTIVITY

We set up on a rectangle of 17yds x 34yds, divided into three equal areas. Each team consists of more than three players, but only three players from each team participate at a time. When the ball goes out, the next set of three players from each team replaces the previous group. If needed, we can adapt the session to a 4v4 set-up instead of 3v3.

Each player is locked into their assigned area within the rectangle and can only move within that area. The ball is free to be moved between areas by the attacking team as they look to score. Only the player directly facing an opponent can tackle the ball.The defending team (blues) starts by passing the ball to any of the attacking players (reds) [1a].

[1a]

1. Blues begin by passing ball to red team

2. Blues defend in their own areas, pressing the ball when possible

The attacking players can only score by making a diagonal pass to the opposite ends of the rectangle outside their assigned area [1b]. For example, if the ball is in the middle area, the player can score by passing to either the right or left end. If the ball is intercepted or missed, another set of three players from each team enters to play. The goals scored by the attacking team are counted in each set, with defenders unable to score. The focus is on how many goals are scored.

When the ball is in a player’s area, they must press the ball. The other players should cover their respective end-line areas. This set-up encourages good positioning, quick reactions, and communication between players.

After three minutes, the defending team transitions to the attacking role, and vice versa. The teams rotate and the counting of goals continues.We run this for three sets of six minutes.

[1b]

1. Reds seek to score by shooting diagonally through cones

CROSSING THE LINE

We can progress this first by allowing attackers to score by crossing the line in their area with the ball, encouraging more 1v1 situations and additional defending challenges [2].

[2]

1. Reds can also score by crossing line in their area

FREE MOVEMENT

We can then progress it by allowing players to move freely between all zones [3a], creating a more game-like situation, where they must adapt to dynamic attacking and defending scenarios across the whole space [3b].

[3a]

1. Blue player passes to red player to begin

2. Players now move freely between all zones

When transitioning to a game situation, I can observe how the defensive unit behaves when out of possession, particularly how the centre backs interact with the full backs. I will focus on their shape, compactness and positioning to ensure they are organised and cohesive. Additionally, I can look at how the central midfielders interact with the wingers, checking if they maintain a balanced and effective defensive structure. When in possession, I’ll evaluate the ball’s speed and whether the team is looking to penetrate quickly through direct play.

[3b]

1. Red players look to score by crossing between cones

2. Blue players defend, pressing the ball in their areas

COACHING POINTS

What are the key things to look out for?

• Are the defenders well organised and able to react quickly as the ball moves between zones?
• Is the defending player in the assigned area effectively pressing and engaging with the opponent who has possession?
• Are the other defenders, who do not have the ball in their area, properly protecting their end and maintaining cover and balance?
• Are the defenders communicating effectively to direct and support each other?
• Are the attackers moving the ball quickly and trying to pass between the defenders?

What are the typical mistakes players might make and how do I avoid them?

Defenders often focus too much on the ball and forget to check their positioning, leaving gaps that attackers can exploit. They may also fail to close down passing lanes or position themselves too far from the ball, allowing attackers to pass through. This usually happens when players are unsure of their role or don’t anticipate passes quickly enough. To overcome these issues, players need to be more aware of their positioning, consistently scanning for threats, and making quick decisions on whether to press, cover or balance.