This practice is designed to work on high speed attack, defensive recovery runs and has a physical and psychological focus. Physically, the practice demands high speed runs in attack and defence. Mentally, players are tasked with demonstrating real desire and an attitude to compete. This is a valuable session for helping players physical conditioning through football.
About the Video
In the video below, Dave will talk you through the structure of the practice, various outcomes and how you can adapt it for your players.
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Additional Information
The structure of this practice lends itself to a number of outcomes, including:
- Quick attack
- Forward passing/running
- Creating and scoring
- Recovery runs
- Transition
- Counter attack
Key elements to observe and encourage are:
- Weight, shape and quality of pass
- Timing and speed of movement
- Accurate finishing
- Defensive intensity and attitude
- Desire and effort
Practice Overview
Topic: Combination Play
No. of Players: 7-22
Goalkeepers: Yes
Practice Type: Phase of Play
Offsides: Optional
Pitch Size: 60 x 44
Timing: 15 mins
Age Group: 12+
Interpreting the Diagrams
The key below outlines what the images mean on the diagrams.
If you have questions about the practices, contact the PDP Team or share your views on the Player Development Project Coaching Community.
Key For Diagrams
Diagrams
Objectives
This practice is designed to help attackers finish at speed and defenders to work on recovery runs. The session allows for physical outcomes that will help players speed.
Organisation
Set up pitch in central areas that allows plenty of space to run in to. At the top of the pitch is a small box for a 3v2 rondo. Attackers must make 5 passes before playing in behind for wide attackers who are stationed outside the box and ready to attack. Two defenders mark and track these players. When the 5 passes are made, attackers can play forward and support the forward pass. If the defenders win the ball, they can score in the target goals and the game restarts. Divide your squad into 2-3 groups to manage work and rest. Defenders and wide attackers should rotate each bout or set. Rotate players across positions so they get a consistent number of sprints in. Players not participating can rest outside the area before their round commences.
Observations & Interventions
What you might see
- Players unable to connect 5 passes
- Players not playing forward quickly
Actions you might take
- Reduce the number of passes required
- Reward attackers with a bonus point if they score in under 3 passes
Adaptations: Is the session too easy?
- Add an extra defender against the attackers
- Make the space narrower
Is the session too hard?
- Remove a defender to create a 2v1/3v2
- Reduce the number of passes in order to attack
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