Possession Practice - Playing through Central areas.

DESCRIPTION

The main idea of this practice, which relates directly to the shape of the field, is to ask players, or to force them in this case, to go through centrally.

This practice is just a fortmat and shape for a field.

The numbers and size of the field can be adjusted however. The main concept is going through central areas. 

One idea, as in the diagram, is to play 2 simultaneous 4vs2 rondos, with the central midfidlers having to play for both games - as the posint of the diamond. This would force the central player to be constantly looking and turning. 

POssible progressions for this include merging both teams, and playing a possession game from end to end. 

COACHING POINTS

This is a important aspect for me of development. The main reason, is the constant message that is given to youth players, that they should not 'go to the middle' or to go 'down the line'.

Players should be encouraged to go where the space is basically, and not restricted from going centrally. 

There are many benefits to going centrally from a development perspective, and to also help us keep possession of the ball. These include:

• The composure and bravery that it requires to go centrally, and the skills required to be able to deal with the ball under pressure there. 
• Players in central areas can turn in a 360 degree angle, whereas going donw the line restricts movemewnt somewhat.
• Players in central areas will have more passing options in all different directions.