The space / time afforded to attacking players in and around the box is often very limited; space is squeezed and therefore time on the ball is reduced – It is vital that players can make appropriate decisions and execute under these high-pressure conditions if goal-scoring chances are to be created.
It is important to regularly practice realistic game-like scenarios in and around the box if players are to develop and transfer their abilities to the game setting.
This activity (and progression) aims to improve attacking players in key areas – opposite movements, deception, timing / moment, speed and direction of movements, penetration (with and without the ball), link-up play in tight areas, and the ability to finish / score from various angles.
1.
Setup:
A 3v3 is created in each half of the playing area; Two Neutral (Midfield) players are positioned in the Central zone; Goalkeepers in full-size goals.
Instructions:
This activity improves attacking players in key areas – opposite movements, deception, timing / moment, speed and direction of movements, penetration (with and without the ball), link-up play in tight areas, plus the ability to finish / score. Play starts with a pass from the Coach (C) to either Neutral / Midfield player; Midfield player must pass into the attacking zone to any of the 3 attacking players – Attackers combine with the midfielders to attack each goal. Defenders winning possession can pass the ball into the midfielders, while successful attacks restart with the Coach.
Play is continuous.
Coaching Points:
- Move before the ball arrives (opposite-movement) – elusive actions!
- Timing / Moment, Direction + Speed of movements
- Receiving on the front-foot if possible
- Combination and link-up play is vital
- Various finishing techniques
2.
Setup:
A 3v3 is created in each half of the playing area; Two Neutral (Midfield) players are positioned in the Central zone; Goalkeepers in full-size goals.
Instructions:
This activity improves attacking players in key areas – opposite movements, deception, timing / moment, speed and direction of movements, penetration (with and without the ball), link-up play in tight areas, plus the ability to finish / score.
PROGRESSION:
Midfield (Neutral) Player may now enter the attacking zone to create a 4v3 overload situation – this also may be an effective ‘regression’ if attacking players are finding it difficult to create and score.
Play is continuous.
Coaching Points:
- Move before the ball arrives (opposite-movement) – elusive actions!
- Timing / Moment, Direction + Speed of movements
- Receiving on the front-foot if possible
- Combination and link-up play is vital
- Various finishing techniques
- Encourage 1-touch finishing