Developing Final 3rd Play

DESCRIPTION

• On a half size football field use a central possession grid of 35x25yrds between the 18yrd box and half way line.
• Mark out two wide channels that adjoin the central area that are 15x25yrds. (30-35 mins) 13 players.
• Attacking (blue) positions four players in the central possession grid (35x25yrds) (preferably a CF, Two AM's, One DM. 3 red defenders occupy this area also. In the two wide channels there is one wing player and one outside back. The attacking teams outside backs wait behind the playing area on their respective sides. When the ball is played into the wide channels, the attacking outside backs can step up to join in the play (if desired by the coach). Coach is positioned at the half way lines with the footballs.

• The attacking team initially maintains possession between the CF, 2 AM's and No.6 (Holding midfielder).
• The defending team have 2 CB's and a holding midfielder in the central possession grid.
• The two wide attacking players represent wide forwards or wingers. They play against two full backs.
• Player Movements:
• Players should be looking to make penetrating runs (including central midfielders breaking from deep positions).
• Diagonal forwards runs are desirable.
• Full backs should be actively over and underlapping when allowed.
• Peeling runs to receive half turned are desirable.
• Pattern Options:
• Central combinations.
• Wide to the wing player for a 1vs1.
• Through balls (Diagonal/Straight).
• Overlapping/Underlapping full back.

• 2 teams compete. The blue (attacking team) attempts to score in the full size goal. The red team attempts to regain possession and dribble across the end line where the coach is positioned. The coach starts play by passing to an attacking player in the 4vs3 zone. The diagrams below show potential solutions to breaking down the opponents back line. For the first 10 mins we can instruct the defenders to play passive (if needed) for players to get comfortable with the patterns.
• Players cannot leave their initial zone until the ball leaves the central grid.
• Offside applies behind the grids.
• Supporting outside backs may enter into the 1vs1 channels when instructed to by the coach.

COACHING POINTS

1. Quick ball movement.
2. Limited touches.
3. Peeling runs to receive in open (half turned) body position looking to play forward.
4. Forward runs from midfielders.
5. Create overloads in wide areas.
6. Combination play in central areas.
7. Variety in attacking options to break the block.