Run with the ball

WHY USE IT

Gives players multiple opportunities to run with the ball and accelerate into space.

SET UP

Set up a small pitch with two gates at each end. The size of the area should be relative to the age, ability and number of your players. Put a cone a metre away from the middle of each end zone, indicating where the players line up while waiting to come on.

HOW TO PLAY

Split players into two teams of three. The teams start on one of the end zone cones, each player having a ball. One player starts by running into the area with their ball. They look to run the ball through a gate on the opposite side. A player from the other team enters to be the defender. Once the attacker has run the ball through the gate, they become the defender. The other player leaves the area, while a new player brings a ball on to become an attacker. Should the defender win the ball, they look to run the ball through one of their attacking gates. The practice continues in this manner.

Coaching points

•  How can you use your touch to move the ball out of your feet, while keeping control of it?
•  Which part of the foot is it most effective for you to use?