Small-sided game: Breaking the lines

WHY USE IT

This three-part session focuses on playing through the thirds, breaking lines and creating overloads in attacking scenarios.

SET UP

Set up an area relative to the age and ability of your players. Play with a goal and a goalkeeper at each end, with eight outfield players per team. Split the area into thirds.

HOW TO PLAY

Players are encouraged to break the lines and play through the thirds whenever possible. This could be done through passing, dribbling, running with the ball or off-the-ball movement. For the first minute or two, there is total free play, to check for transference of learning. As the game progresses, look to implement challenges (both collective and individual) and conditions to further players’ development.

Individual challenges

• If midfielders arrive into the 18-yard box and score: 3 goals.
• Each time defenders break a line by passing or running with the ball: 3 goals.

COACHING POINTS

• Identify when to drive forward with the ball or pass to break lines
• Movement off the ball to create space, receive and create overloads
• 1v1 scenarios: positive attacking mindset, speed to dribble