Small-sided game: Attack in wide areas

WHY USE IT

A conditioned game to give players a chance to try out the different patterns they have worked on, within a game-like environment.

SET UP

Use a pitch relevant for the needs of your players. Mark out two wide channels and set teams up in a 2-3-1 formation. If goalkeepers are available, use them. If not, include a rule that you’re only able to score with a one-touch finish.

HOW TO PLAY

Play a normal game but, before a team can score, the ball must be played into at least one of the wide areas.

Progressions: take away this rule or remove the channels completely, to check the players understanding and see whether learning has taken place. Use a points-scoring system where teams get more points if they score after the ball has been delivered from a wide area (you will need to keep the channels for this particular progression).

Coaching points

Movement of players to drag opponents into central areas to create space in the wide channels. Timing of runs from players to go into the wide channels and the weight and area of pass from team-mates to allow them to run onto the ball. Timing and area of runs from attacking players to meet the cross.