Football/Soccer Session (Beginner): U8 Session 8: Changes of Direction

Intro

Organization:

- 2-3 players in each line

- 22x30 area with half way line (white line)

- Ball each

Instructions:

- On the coaches 'GO' players from each line must cross the halfway line, change direction and then score on their goal.

- Once a team mate has shot the next person in line begins.

- Play for 1 minute and ask players to keep score

- Use the pullback and inside/outside cut

Coaching Points:

- To accelerate, push the ball further in front.

- 'Explode' away after changing direction.

Make It Different:

Conditioned Game

Organization:

- 2vs2

- 22x30 area with half way line (white line)

- Ball start with attacking player (red)

Instructions:

- 2vs2 game with the attcking team having to cross the halfway line beofre deciding to score straight ahead or turn and score behind.

- If the defending team wins the ball they score on the goal ahead,

- If the ball goes out on the side its a kick in but play is restarted if it goes behind the goal.

Coaching Points:

- Can players turn under pressure?

- Do they use small touches for control?

- Do they use a bigger touch to acclerate into space?

- Do they look up too check for space/open team mate?

Make It Different:

- Use one field if the numbers are low