Practice 3: Wide-player threat

WHY USE IT

The final practice puts players within an environment very similar to one they face in a game.

SET UP

Set up a regular pitch but with two wide channels running its full length. Each channel is split in half using the halfway line. Players are split into two teams, with four neutral players supporting the team in possession. These support players are locked into their designated half (two in each half).

HOW TO PLAY

Play a normal game, except with the restrictions of the support players as above. They are locked into their own half but can leave the channels – however, they must return to them when there is a turnover in possession. As soon as they have done this, they are free to go anywhere in their half of the field again.

COACHING POINTS

• Key messages from the previous practices are reinforced. 
• Support players should look to make movements from their channels to the main area to either create overloads – allowing the team to produce an up, back and through pattern – or receive a pass that will then allow them to have an attempt on goal.