Shadow Play (an introduction)
‘Shadow play’ is simply a title to a practice that is performed against very little or no opposition.
As a follow-on from our last practices this is all about players being inventive in their movement off the ball as well as being technically adept when in possession.
It is mainly about players accepting ‘possibilities’ in movement – no matter which position they find themselves in.
It also concerns players adapting themselves and producing a pattern of movement on the field – no matter which role they started the match.
Basically though it is about freedom of expression – yet at the same time accepting the realism of their position in the field of play:
At first coaches won’t find it easy to motivate players, especially in terms of speed or movement when there is no opposition to add to the urgency. But once players accept the intention of the practice they will work with greater enthusiasm and conviction.
A good practice for starters is with the ball in the back four – players, i.e. the defence, offering alternatives for the player in possession.
In the diagram – 6 in possession just outside his own penalty area
6 plays to 4, while 5 moving to position 5. 2 receives a first time pass from 4
5 advances with the ball for a few paces only, while 7 moves wide to add width to the right side of the attack
Meanwhile 8 and 9 make crossover runs (as if to lose their markers) and 5 plays the ball into the path of 9 to chase after and collect.
The idea is that 8 and 7 (moving wide) will attract opposing defenders giving 9 the chance to gain possession in space.
The attack can continue with a shot at goal – coaches must just not let the practice fade away.
* All other players’ move forward as they would in a match once 5 has delivered the ball to 9.
