Football/Soccer Session (Moderate): 7v7 BOTB w/ overlap

Description

Building out of the Back

U9 / U10

7v7 Shape: 1-2-3-1

Description

In this scenario #4 (right defender) receives ball from the Goalkeeper. #7 while the previous pass is being made checks away then back down the sideline (staying wide) towards the #4. Receives ball from #4. While that ball is travelling, the #9 checks away then back towards the #7. #7 takes touch inside, while #4 makes run beyond #7 into the space left by #4. #9 receives ball from #7 and plays ball into run of oncoming #4. If team has to transition to defense, #7 assumes the role / position of #4 and vice versa until they can reset back again.

Coaching Method

My advice would be to practice with only the attacking team and rehearsing the passes & movements through cones or poles. Next, apply pressure using 'time' i.e. complete last pass in so many seconds. Switch sides i.e. right side of field then use other players on left side. Next, apply opponents. Perhaps tell opponents they can only walk and cannot run. Finally, go into full pressure, but to make the game more realistic, give players freedom to make their own choices and provide them with a clear objective i.e. must play pass into a midfield zone (coned off area) to score. Successful overlaps earn you more points.

Key points

Requires defenders who are mobile and fit enough for the demands of this tactic. Weight of pass, accuracy of pass and timing of runs is key and will take many reps to become successful in games.