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Formats & formations

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9-a-side formation: 4-2-1-1

Why choose this 9v9 formation? Review the pros and cons, in possession and out of possession principles, and each position

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9-aside formation: 3-2-1-2

Why choose this 9v9 formation? Review the pros and cons, in possession and out of possession principles, and each position

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9-aside formation: 3-1-2-1-1

Why choose this 9v9 formation? Review the pros and cons, in possession and out of possession principles, and each position

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9-aside formation: 3-2-3

Why choose this 9v9 formation? Review the pros and cons, in possession and out of possession principles, and each position

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9-aside formation: 3-3-2

Why choose this 9v9 formation? Review the pros and cons, in possession and out of possession principles, and each position

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9-aside formation: 3-4-1

Why choose this 9v9 formation? Review the pros and cons, in possession and out of possession principles, and each position

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7-aside formation: 2-1-2-1

Why choose this 7v7 formation? Review the pros and cons, in possession and out of possession principles, and each position

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7-aside formation: 1-3-2

Why choose this 7v7 formation? Review the pros and cons, in possession and out of possession principles, and each position

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7-aside formation: 2-2-2

Why choose this 7v7 formation? Review the pros and cons, in possession and out of possession principles, and each position

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7-aside formation: 3-1-2

Why choose this 7v7 formation? Review the pros and cons, in possession and out of possession principles, and each position

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7-aside formation: 2-3-1

Why choose this 7v7 formation? Review the pros and cons, in possession and out of possession principles, and each position

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What is a formation?

From a simple 1-2-1 at five-a-side to complex strategies at the elite level, Steph Fairbairn explains the basics behind choosing, and then ...

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Patience the key to a possession game

We all want to play a free-flowing style, but that is often tested when players are under pressure. Don’t panic - they must be encouraged ...

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11v11 formations 4-3-3

A favourite formation at all levels of the game. Attack is very strong but midfield weak with only three in there.

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Formats & formations

9-a-side formation: 4-2-1-1

9-aside formation: 3-2-1-2

9-aside formation: 3-1-2-1-1

9-aside formation: 3-2-3

9-aside formation: 3-3-2

9-aside formation: 3-4-1

7-aside formation: 2-1-2-1

7-aside formation: 1-3-2

7-aside formation: 2-2-2

7-aside formation: 3-1-2

7-aside formation: 2-3-1

What is a formation?

Patience the key to a possession game