Small-sided game: Transition at speed

WHY USE IT

This small-sided game allows players to now apply concepts of the previous practice to attacking a goal, and, subsequently, defending.

SET UP

Set up a playing area relative to the age and ability of your players, with a goal at each end. Play 5v5, with goalkeepers.

HOW TO PLAY

On one half of the field, play 5v3 (outfield players). The team of five aims to keep possession and split the defenders with a pass into the other half. All players then move into the other half, where there are already two waiting defenders, to play 5v5. The attacking team continues to attack the goal, aiming to score. If the defending team regains possession, two players who were previously attackers drop back into the other half, and the new team in possession plays with a 5v3 advantage – again, aiming to break into the other half and score.

COACHING POINTS

• Ball movement, player movement off the ball and quick passing to create the split, then quick transition into offensive half. 
• Finishing, transition to defending, communication.