Short into long

WHY USE IT

Provides an environment where players need to complete a number of short passes before playing it long.

SET UP

Set up an area suitable for the players participating. Split it into thirds - the middle third does not have to be the same size as the end thirds. At each end, place or create two small goals. Split players into three teams - two are allocated to an end third. The other team, split between the end thirds, acts as defenders.

HOW TO PLAY

A team must complete a set amount of passes before passing it to the other team. On doing so, the team wins a point. The player receiving the pass from the other team is allowed two touches before they can be tackled. If the defenders win the ball, they look to score in one of the goals. After a set amount of time, one of the other teams becomes the defenders.

Coaching points

• On completion of the set number of passes, players need to recognise the correct time to play the long pass and transfer the ball to the other team.
• The player playing the pass should consider their positioning and body shape and the location and actions of opposition players before ensuring they use the correct technique for the pass.