Small-sided game: Passing with purpose

WHY USE IT

This three-part session encourages players to be adventurous and pass forward with a purpose, while also working on movement to receive and creating angles.

SET UP

Set up an area relevant to the age and ability of your players. Place a goal at either end of the pitch and divide players into two equal teams (ideally 5v5), including goalkeepers. Place two neutral players at each end of the pitch, either side of each goal.

HOW TO PLAY

Teams can only score via an assist from a neutral player. This encourages players to play forwards quickly into the feet of the neutral players and then make forward runs to support the play. You can progress the practice by awarding double goals if the first pass after winning possession back is into a neutral player, who then immediately assists a goal.

COACHING POINTS

• Look to play forward
• Move to receive the pass; angles and timing of passes and runs
• Effective communication
• Play with head up
• Speed of play
• Organisation when out of possession for next attack