El Rondo

DESCRIPTION

Set up a circle (around the size of the semi-circle) and put a number of players (e.g. 6 or 7) around the outside of the circle, with two players in bibs in the middle of the circle who will act as interceptors.

Game: The players on the outside of the circle have to keep posession of the ball away from the interceptors, and are only allowed one or two touches on the ball (dependant on ability). The interceptors are not allowed to tackle, however if they manage to intercept the ball they swap places with the player who just lost the ball. Any player who takes more touches on the ball than is allowed, will swap places with one of the interceptors as punishment.

Progression: To increase difficulty, make the area smaller, meaning the players on the outside of the circle have less time on the ball. Alternatively, if the players have been playing with the two-touch rule, make it more difficult by only allowing one touch on the ball. 

COACHING POINTS

Tactical: Players should be clever and only play passes to the nearest team mate, and not try too many risky passes.

Technical: By having limited touches on the ball, players have to ensure their ball control is of a high standard, and their passing has to have the right amount of power and accuracy to get the ball to the player they're aiming for.

Physical: The interceptors have to press their opponents with high intensity to have a chance of winning the ball from them.

Physicological: Players have to remain alert at all times as they don't have a lot of time on the ball, and must continually look up to know where their fellow team mates are.