Practice 3: Counter from deep

WHY USE IT

This conditioned game places players in an environment that closely replicates the actual game of soccer and allows them to create their own opportunities to counter-attack from deep.

SET UP

Set up an area relevant for the players. Two defenders from the team starting with the ball are locked into their half of the pitch along with an opposition striker. The remaining players are locked into the other half of the pitch to help create a team defending in a low block. It also provides the defending team with an overload. This half of the pitch is also ‘funnelled’ towards the goal.

HOW TO PLAY

Goalkeeper starts by playing to one of the two defenders, who then plays the ball into the other half of the pitch. Once in the attacking half of the pitch, the team looks to score as normal. If the defending team wins possession, they look to counter-attack and are challenged to score within 10 seconds. In this instance all players are unlocked. 

Progression: Funnel both sides of the pitch.

COACHING POINTS

Continue with same key messages from previous practice; forward passes ahead of players, drive when there is space, release at the right time and timing and area of movement.