Moving off the ball

WHY USE IT

Can be used for various passing and receiving outcomes.

SET UP

Use an area size of 6x12 yards, or adjust to fit your space, with a halfway line. You can increase the 1v1 in the central area to a 2v1, 2v2 or whatever you feel best serves your desired outcomes and numbers.

HOW TO PLAY

The ball starts with an end player and every pass must be played through the central attacker in the grid – two outside players cannot pass to each other. Players look to maintain possession until the ball can be played into the opposite end player. Once the attack is complete, start again with a new ball. The central defender must look to intercept and regain possession. If they do, they should then play to the serving-end player to reset practice, but can be stopped by the central attacker. Points are scored between the players in the middle.

COACHING POINTS

• First touch to keep ball on safe side away from oncoming pressure.
• Pass election and execution.
• Movement to create space to receive or for others to receive.
• Whether to penetrate or retain possession.
• Supporting movements of attackers to play forward.