Football/Soccer Session (Moderate): Coach FBs in the Attacking Zone

Free Zone Game (15 mins)

Organization: 60*40 field at North Park (cross field). Field divided into three vertical zones. Supply of balls outside each goal. Two teams of 7 players plus a goalkeeper. One sub for each team.

Activity: Teams play 8v8 (including GK). Adjust as needed. Each team plays 1-3-1-3. Regular game rules apply. Only condition is that the attacking team must occupy the two wide channels in order to go to goal. There is not a permanent player in the wide channels but rather players are free to roam into the channel as needed. eg. look to create overloads or create open space. Focus is on getting the wide defenders wide and into the attacking half to create overloads.

Question: How can we utilize space along the flank effectively? How can movement in and out of the wide channels help us to break down / unbalance defenders? Eg. how can forwards help to create space for defenders?

Coaching Points:

1. Dispersal in attack.

2. Mobility - off the ball movement. Where are the spaces? Cues to join the attack/move.

3. Support - proper distances and angles.

4. Look to create overloads.

5. Communication

Functional - Coach FB on when/how to attack (20 mins)

Organization: Use two thirds of the field (width) and length of half of field. Two small target goals placed at an angle just past halfway line, one large goal on other endline. Supply of balls just past half, just outside center circle. Blue attacks small goals with 1-3-3 (2CB, 1FB, 3CM). Red attacks large goal with 3-3-2 (2CB, 1FB, 3CM, 1CF, 1RF).

Activity: Play starts with Red going forward, either from server or with CB playing in. Aim is to score on large goal. Blue can win the ball back and score on small goals. All restarts at center. Can walk through a couple scenarios:

1. Play #2 directly and 7 works off of FB movement (eg. shifts inside to create space). Can combine and look for a cross.

2. Play a central mid and build forward. #2 gets into an advanced position looking for a pass.

Progression: add the #9 for Blue who can then add pressure to the Red CBs. Play 8v8.

Coaching Points:

1 Movement to support.

2. First touch.

3. Running with the ball/combination play.

4. Accuracy and weight of pass/cross.

5. Scanning.