Small-sided game: To pass or to dribble

WHY USE IT

The final practice moves the session closer to the actual game of soccer. Once more, players are provided with a choice of whether they pass the ball to a team-mate or retain it themselves.

SET UP

Set up as a normal game but players are allocated, and locked into, a specific third. Distribution of players across the thirds depends on the number of players and the formation the team usually plays.

HOW TO PLAY

While players are locked into their allocated thirds, they can enter another third if dribbling the ball. But if a player passes the ball into the next third, they remain locked in to their third. When a team loses possession, any player not in their allocated third must return to it immediately. If the ball goes out of play, the game restarts with a player either passing the ball back into play or by dribbling it in.

Coaching points

Again, players must decide on pass or dribble. By dribbling, they gain an extra player in the third of the pitch with the ball; by passing, they can get the ball nearer to the opposition’s goal quicker. Again awareness of space for yourself and your team-mates is crucial. And if you do decide to pass the ball, do you pass to feet or into space?