Using the goalkeeper in build-up play

This session is designed to incorporate the goalkeeper in the build-up phase of possession, moving from an unopposed passing drill to opposed end-zone games, and finishing with an 11v11. 

Many teams are now deploying a very aggressive, player-orientated high pressing system against the ball. Using the goalkeeper in our build-up phase gives us a numerical advantage, enabling us to always have a free player when getting pressed. Working on an understanding of where the pressure is coming from and how to find the free player gives us a greater chance of playing through the press and gaining more control in the game.

We run this session regularly during pre-season. Playing through an aggressive press obviously comes with an element of risk, so it is important to get the right actions before the season starts. In season, 
we revisit this weekly in possession-based sessions.

WARM-UP PASSING DRILL

Set up three spaces with poles, each 10x15m. Divide the players into three groups of eight. In their groups, players play one or two touch, moving vertically up and down, working on passing combinations (bouncing centrally to wide areas, lay-ups, etc) [1]. You can vary this by moving players inside and outside the space from time to time, with only the top players staying on top. Here we are working on the technique of the pass, body shape, and receiving skills.

[1]

1. Players use one or two touches, moving ball up and down, working on combinations 

MINI GOAL GAME

Set up two pitches with poles and cones, each 15x25m. Split the squad into two groups, and within those groups set up for 5v5 plus two goalkeepers. The rules of the game are that the team in possession can only score in the end-zone into mini goals. They can play with their goalkeeper when in possession [2]. Goalkeepers can’t be pressed by outfield players, and the defending goalkeeper doesn’t defend the goal. Here we are working on decision-making, selection and timing of passes.

[2]

1. Play starts with goalkeeper in possession

2. Red team pass ball and create combinations

3. When in end-zone, red team score in mini goal

4. Defending goalkeeper does not defend attack

SIX MINI GOAL GAME

This time, set up a pitch with poles from box to box, with end-zones of 15m in front of the mini goals. We go into an 11v11 end-zone game, with rules the same as the previous activity, but now the outfield players can press the goalkeeper in possession, and the defending goalkeeper can defend the three mini goals [3]. The game always restarts with the goalkeepers. Here we are working on the goalkeeper dealing with pressure, and finding the right solutions.

[3]

1. Play starts with goalkeeper

2. Blue team can now press red goalkeeper

3. Red team look to pass and create combinations

4. Red team look to score in mini goal

5. Blue goalkeeper can defend mini goal

11v11 FULL PITCH GAME

We end by progressing the previous activity, using all the same rules, but this time we play on a full pitch with full size goals [4]. We are looking to apply in a match situation all the skills we’ve explored.

[4]

1. Play starts with goalkeeper

2. Blue team press red goalkeeper

3. Red team look to pass and create combinations

4. Red team look to score in goal

5. Blue goalkeeper can defend goal

COACHING POINTS

What are the key things to look out for technically and tactically?

Technically: the positioning of the goalkeeper and the outfield players (availability, height, width, and the creation of short passing distances); the first touch and open stance of the goalkeeper; an open stance for outfield players to receive the ball; finding the spare player when the opponent attacks the goalkeeper; using the bounce for a better passing angle.

Tactically: getting the defending teams to challenge differently by sometimes attacking the goalkeeper and sometimes waiting; attacking the goalkeeper from the centre or from the outside.

What are the typical mistakes that players might make, and how do you avoid them?

The goalkeeper may not wait for the pressure; they need to be composed and not play early passes without pressure from the opponent. The goalkeeper needs to always have the ball in control to play quickly when the pressure comes. The goalkeeper may also play to the wrong side when the opponent presses, so a focus on the spare player is needed, and an understanding of where the pressure comes from.

Outfield players may also not understand where the pressure is coming from, and need to be encouraged to think about a bounce pass – ie straight pressure = diagonal bounce, diagonal pressure = vertical bounce.