Three-zone movement

WHY USE IT

A good coach should always be looking for players to get the basics right – passing and receiving are key.

SET UP

You will need balls, bibs and cones in an area of suitable size for your players. We have used eight players in a 40x20 area.

HOW TO PLAY

Play six attackers against two defenders – 3v1 in the first zone, 2v1 in the second and a lone attacker in the third. Play starts with the 3v1 – each attacker must touch the ball before it is passed into the 2v1 zone. Similarly, both attackers must touch the ball in the 2v1 zone before it’s moved on.

To complete the challenge, they must pass to the lone attacker. When that player receives the ball, the other players must arrange to go back in the other direction, so attackers and defenders move to recreate new box overloads.

Attackers must score as many points as possible – one for each successful switch – but a point is deducted each time a defender intercepts. When this happens, play is returned to the start player. Play for two minutes, then rotate.

COACHING POINTS

• Coaches players to master the basic elements of passing, receiving and movement, coupled with the right decisions of when and where to pass.