Football/Soccer Session (Moderate): Using the Half-Space to Create Goal Scoring Chances (Start Time: 2023-10-17 17:00:00)

Theme (25 mins)

Description: This session sees the grays attack the pinks, usinga diamond midfield and a front three. The opponent in our example will playwithin a 4-3 shape, representing the most common shape we see from ouropponents. This does mean the session is a simple 7v7 that can be opened up into abigger session, if needed. The idea of the practice is very simple, the grays look toscore at the top end, using the half-space where possible, the pinks look to winpossession back and attack the two end goals. Once the pinks have attacked, the pinks might be out of balance, this will provide opportunity in a moment ofexposure for the grays.

Coaching Details: Within this practice, knowing where and when to step in will be very important. Ifwe see the same mistake made multiple times, it might be a trigger for us to supportthe players by stopping the session and becoming involved. The key things for us totry and get involved with are players recognition of movements, if player ‘A’ makes amovement, how does it affect those around them?

Individual Detail: How can individuals hold positions to influence the opponent? The half-space canbe a really important area to attract pressure from the opponent, creating a 1v2 thatleaves space for other players. Can we provide players with the detail and theimportance of the position? Then give them opportunity to experiment and trialwith different movements, in order to manipulate the space and exploit theopponent. This will naturally take time to create success.

Progression / Adaptation: Adding additional units to the practice will increase the realism and the challenge tothe team in possession. Adapt the shape so that the practice suits the needs of yourteam. One challenge will be to limit players to only playing forward, this willchallenge the players to make more authentic and needed runs.