Football/Soccer Session (Academy Sessions): Short Passing Combination Drill (Start Time: 2018-08-30 18:45:00)

Short Passing Combination Drill (15 mins)

Equipment-

Footballs, Poles, 2 mannequins and 10 players

The focus on this drill is to complete short passes in a confined area that promotes combination play. Most of the passes are one touch. Players should look to perform the actions quickly at a good tempo to encourage game realistic combination play. the 2 players in the middle swap over after each set and work for a period of 1 minute.

Key points

Weight of pass: The session relies on the correct weight of pass from players to enable quick combination play. Passes should be weighted so the receiver can play first time. If the pass is too firm it will mean and extra touch being needed and this will slow the move down.

Decision Making: With two balls working in opposite directions there is alot of traffic and bodies. Players may need to take an extra few touches before passing into the next player. Players should be aware of whats around them by having their heads up and eyes focussed and scan the area. A decision should also be made if they require the extra touch or if they can play it first time.

Speed of play: The tempo of the passing and the movement of the player should be quicker and replicate that of match speed. Slow combination play is not effective as defenders will read it easier. Movement off the ball should be well timed and arrive on time to keep the spped of play high.

Timing of runs: When players are introduced to the pattern they may take time to get used to the movements. A walk through is a good idea to replicate the movements and then once an understanding is gained, gradually build the pace up. The movements should be well timed so the middle players can set the ball infront to allow the player to run onto the ball.

Progressions

All passes to be one touch (If surface allows)

Double pass at the end to reverse direction.

Players to crossover runs.

If you need to make it easier:

No limit on amount of touches

2 middle players stay on mannequin and don't change over.

Start with one ball