SetupCreate a small field approximately the size of the penalty area (18X44 yards) and mark the center point of the field with cones. Taper each of the sidelines towards the goals on each end of the penalty area. The field should be tapered to avoid bad shooting angles. Organize players in a 4v2 (4 defenders and 2 attackers) in each half of the field. Players are restricted to the side of the grid they were originally placed. Spare soccer balls should be placed near each of the goals for quick retrieval and quick restarts.InstructionsThe defenders have to shoot from their own half of the field and the forwards should follow any shots from the defenders and finish any rebounds. If the ball is shot and the goalkeeper recovers the ball, they should quickly distribute the ball to their defensive players and the play should continue. If the ball is shot over the goal, a new ball should be retrieved from behind the goal and play should resume quickly. Players should be encouraged to take half chances and limit the number of touches before shooting. Forwards should follow any shot for rebounds.VariationsPlace a restriction on the number of touches. Allow defenders to have 3-touch and forward's only 1-touch. This will encourage quick shots and more opportunities.
in more ways than one
in more ways than one
Under FutureFit, your Under-9s stay at 5v5, your Under-11s stay at 7v7 and your Under-13s stay at 9v9. Same pitch, same numbers, one more year. Here is how to make sure that year feels like a step forward rather than a repeat.
Most 1v1s are lost in the first second, when the defender rushes in and dives. Teach your players to slow the attacker down, take away the dangerous option and pick the right moment, and they will win far more of them.
The FA's FutureFit framework lands this season, bringing a 3v3 entry format at Under-7s. Here is what actually changes on a Saturday morning, and how to coach it well.