Small-sided game: Winning the ball back

WHY USE IT

This session is close to the actual game, providing players with situations akin to those that they will come across in a match.

SET UP

Set up a rectangular area suitable for your players. Split players into two teams, with additional support players who help the team in possession. Eight small goals are positioned outside of the area, two on each side.

HOW TO PLAY

One team starts with the ball and looks to retain possession with the help of the support players. They need to complete a set number of passes (approx. eight). Once they have done this, they score a point if they are able to pass the ball into one of the small goals. If the other team wins the ball, they can attempt to score a point straight away.

COACHING POINTS

Team out of possession needs to close down the spaces together. Player on the ball needs to be engaged so it forces them to play with their head down. Other players close down the spaces to prevent a pass being played through them, while trying to anticipate where the next pass might be played so they can put earlier pressure on the next player to receive the ball.