The keeper keeps it

WHY USE IT

One of the hardest things in playing out from the back is to keep the ball away from attackers. It takes patience and the ability to move the ball to create space. This is where the goalkeeper becomes a vital member of the passing team, using their feet when receiving a backpass.

SET UP

Set up a 15×15-yard area. On two ends of the square, place about four spare balls. Here, we have used 10 players.

HOW TO PLAY

Play a 2v2 in the square with two keepers opposite each other outside it. The objective is for the goalkeepers to develop confidence in using their feet to support team-mates to retain possession in the defensive third of the pitch. As the activity progresses, pressure is applied to the goalkeepers. A keeper starts with a pass to one of the teams in the square. Points are awarded if a team completes five consecutive passes.

COACHING POINTS

Goalkeepers are frequently required to use their feet and keep the flow and pace of attack constant. Limiting keepers to two touches adds pressure and requires them to play quickly.