Variation of cross the river, but with no pressure in the attacker ends Even number of players in each third Players at either end are trying to move the ball around in their third with the intent to play through the middle Defenders in the middle should shift in relation to the ball Defenders in the middle must use the depth in the middle to provide cover to their teammate pressing the ball
Defenders must provide cover and balance depending on where the ball is positioned Defenders are trying to delay the pass through or cut it off with good defensive cover Attackers players must keep ball on the ground and look to play through or around defenders
This practice has no coaching points
This practice has no progressions
in more ways than one
sportplan_football
2026 brings the biggest World Cup ever, revolutionary rule changes, and new tactical opportunities for coaches at every level. Here's what you need to know.
Possession without purpose is pointless. These drills combine ball retention with physical conditioning to create teams that dominate and outlast opponents.
Teams have just 6 seconds to exploit a turnover before defences reorganise. Learn how to train your players to attack with speed and purpose.
