Warm-up: Building the play

WHY USE IT

This helps develop players’ ability to move the ball quickly when under pressure.

SET UP

Set up two 12 x 12 areas, with players set out in a 5v3. The attacking team have four players on the outside of the square and one inside. The defending players must stay inside the square and look to press and disrupt.

HOW TO PLAY

The attackers look to keep possession and complete 12 passes in a row. The defenders try to win possession and connect a pass or dribble out of the area. If the attackers lose possession, they should quickly try to win back the ball before defenders connect a pass. Attackers score 1 point for 12 passes in a row. Defenders earn 1 point for winning possession and connecting a pass or dribbling out of the square.

COACHING POINTS

• Disguised passes to find open players
• Player in the middle showing for the ball to drag defenders and open passing lanes
• Weight of pass and the ability to play first time if needed