Objective:

Organization

• Make the goal four yards wide, and create a play area 25 yards by 15 yards.

• Put in goal box 4-yards out from the goal line.

• Several balls should be kept at the back of the goals.

• Two teams of 4 (or 5 or 6).

• Teams alternate as the defending and attacking team.

• The attacking team has two attackers and no goalkeeper.

• The defending team has one field player and a goalkeeper (who must stay in the goal box).

• Start the game at the goal line with the lone defender outside the goal box.

• Play continues until a goal is scored or the ball goes out of play or the defending goalkeeper has the ball in his or her hands.

• Encourage the shorthanded team to score if they gain possession, even though the other team has a manpower advantage, as there will be an empty net opportunity.

• Restart the game at the other end, as the former defending team now becomes the attackers.

• Use a rotation system that produces equal time both as a field player and a goalkeeper and equal time on and off the field.

 

Teaching

• Team with two outfield players

  • Encourage the player in possession to look at the two options - pass the ball or keep it.

  • Pass to teammate with pace and accuracy, and use teamwork to score.

  • For the player not in possession, support teammate by being visible.

• Team with one outfield player

  • Works with the goalkeeper to deny shooting space.

  • If the lone field player intercepts or wins the ball he/she should look to dribble forward quickly to score.

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Progressions

U10 Progressions

• This is a first-time, stand-alone activity and is not repeated in the U11 & U12, but you should consider substituting it for other activities as 2 vs. 1 attacking and defending situations are very important in soccer.

• As they become familiar with the game the players will increase their own intensity.

• Consider using the same game, but in a 3 vs. 2 format.