Turn to create space

WHY USE IT

Develops players to change direction and create space for themselves.

SET UP

Mark out a long rectangular area and split it into six, as shown. Position a small goal just outside each end ‘third’. 

Players play 1v1. The attacking player starts in one half of the area and the defender in the other half with the ball. Both players are locked into their half of the area.

HOW TO PLAY

Start the practice with the defender passing the ball to the attacker. The attacker then looks to pass the ball into one of the small goals, with the defender trying to stop them. The attacker can only attempt to pass into a goal once they enter the end third where it is situated.

There is also a time limit for the attacker to complete the task. If they are successful the players remain in the same roles. If they are unsuccessful, they swap roles. The practice can be progressed by the defender becoming unlocked.

Coaching points

• What body position will help you set yourself up to turn?
• How can you turn quickly and accelerate away? 
• Disguise your movement, so the defender doesn’t know where you are going.