Practice 1: Cash in on overloads

Why use it

A key element of having possession is being able to create goalscoring opportunities. This is particularly important in an overload situation, which can be exploited before the opposition have a chance to recover and reorganise.

Set up

Set up an area with a small central channel and two small goals at each end. Use two groups of three attackers, plus two defenders. The attackers are positioned between the goals, a group at each end. The defenders start in the middle of the area.

HOW TO PLAY

One attacker moves into the channel, standing on the line closest to their team-mates. The defenders are positioned on the other line. The ball is passed to the attacker by a team-mate, who then enters the pitch with the other attacker, creating a 3v2. They look to score in the goals at the other end of the area.

When they have finished, the other attackers do the same and the practice continues in this manner. If the defenders win the ball, they attack the end of the pitch the attackers entered from.

Coaching points

Players should be direct and positive in their play - they need to attempt to score as quickly as possible. They should be encouraged to make forward runs and pass forward.