Practice 3: Attacking choices

WHY USE IT

To finish, two games of 3v3 can be played, giving players an opportunity to practice within an environment similar to matchday.

SET UP

Pitch set-up is similar to the previous two practices, but all six players are constantly involved and playing, as they would be in a game. A small goal and a gate, at each of the pitch, are still used. There are no goalkeepers.

HOW TO PLAY

Play a normal game, with the following adaptations: If the ball goes out, play restarts with a player dribbling back in. Teams are also restricted to two or three passes maximum - this helps players prioritise dribbling and only releasing if they really need to. This rule can also be added to the previous practice.

Coaching points

Players off the ball need to make runs that will either allow them to be a position to receive in an effective position, or to create space for their team-mate in possession. Player with the ball needs to identify an opportunity to exploit space and look to go past an opponent by shifting the defender’s body weight.