Small-sided game: Sharpen the attack

WHY USE IT

Puts players within a game situation, providing them with chances to work on their attacking and finishing within game-realistic situations.

SET UP

Area size should be relevant for the players, while small enough to encourage them to shoot. There also needs to be a halfway line. Split players into two teams, apart from two players who act as ‘support’ for the team in possession. Players are allocated, and locked into, designated halves of the area, with a slight overload for the defending players. The ‘support’ players can go anywhere on the pitch.

HOW TO PLAY

players encouraged to shoot when they get the opportunity. Support players should also be encouraged to help the attackers in the attacking half of the area, so it changes from it being an underload to an overload.
Progressions: Allow players to rotate between the different halves of the area; award extra points for a one-touch finish.

COACHING POINTS

Players should look to have the ball under control while travelling with it, using a smaller touch to set themselves for the shot. Angle and distance between the two attacking players. Weight of pass from attacker to allow partner to move onto it and strike first time. Height, angle and type of finish - use disguise where possible.