Practice 1: To pass or to dribble

WHY USE IT

Puts players in situations where they must decide whether to keep the ball or pass it to a team-mate. This first practice gives them an opportunity to develop their skills and self-esteem while dribbling, before it progresses to a 2v2 situation, where players get the decision to pass or dribble.

SET UP

Split a pitch into thirds for the entire session. Only the central third is used in this practice. Split players into two teams, then pair players with a member of the opposite team. Each pair faces each other at opposite ends of the central third, with one player starting with a ball.

HOW TO PLAY

Players with a ball attempt to dribble from one side of the central third to the other, as their partner attempts to stop them. If the dribbler is successful, they then try to dribble back across to the other side. If their partner wins the ball, they keep possession and look to dribble from to the other side. Mix up pairings and progress by changing it from 1v1 to 2v2.

Coaching points

Keep close control of the ball while dribbling and use feints and disguise to go past a player. When in the 2v2, recognise when it is the correct time to dribble and when you should release it to your partner.