PROGRESSION IV
The practice can be built up using all the players and three goals with a goalkeeper in each (as in diagram 1).
Diagram 1
The players line up in three's or four's (depending on numbers) behind a line or marker.
The goalkeeper in each section can act as server OR a server can be placed between the goal areas to pass the ball to the front player in each group (server's marked (S1) and (S2).
So, (G1) or (S1) would pass the ball to (X3), (the front player in group 1). X3 has to control the ball, but as soon as he makes his first contact with the ball, then (X1) chases from the back of the group to try and either tackle (X3) or if not to at least pressurise him before he gets in a shot at goal. (G1) tries to save.
That completed they go back to the rear of their group, and the practice continues with group 2. (X4) receives a pass either from (S1), (S2) or (G2) and he tries to score while (X6) attempts to prevent him from getting in a shot at goal.
The practice continues to group 3 using (S2) and (G3) as servers, and that completed group 1 starts off again.
Coaches should insist on: -
(1) A good first touch from the front man in each group i.e. (X3), (X4) and (X7) in the first round.
(2) Speed is essential, and all players should attempt to go through the practice as quickly as they can.
(3) The fewest number of touches on the ball by the attackers before they get in a shot at goal
(4) The attacker should try and run across the run of the man attempting to defend, so as to make it difficult for him to make a challenge for the ball.
Practice 2
In practice (2) the players form two groups of six, (10 metres apart) with 2 goals defended by (G1) and (G2).
This can be played on a competitive basis to encourage defenders and attackers to act with some urgency.
(X7) at the back of group 2 passes the ball with some purpose to (X6) the front man of group 1.
(X6) has to control the ball quickly and try and score past (G1)
But in this exercise he will face a challenge from (X12) the front man of group (2), (X12) sets off as soon as (X7) kicks the ball
Clearly (X7) must be made to pass with some pace otherwise the ball would not reach (X6)
Coaches should insist on: -
(a) Good first touch from the attacking player
(b) Real effort and energy from the chasing opponent
(c) Attackers looking to get in a goalbound effort before defenders manage to get in contact.