It's appropriate for all ages, but especially
good for U10, U12, U14, and U16. Try it with at
least 8 players, but no more than 17.
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How The Drill Works
===================
Set up on a half field, with cones, a goal,
and alternate jerseys. You'll need a grid about
30 x 30 in size, with one side playing to goal.
Assign 4 attackers and 3 defenders wearing
an alternate jersey. A keeper should be defending
the goal.
To start, instruct the players to exploit their
numerical advantage and finish with a shot on goal.
Attackers should move the ball looking for the open
player and holes in the defense. The defenders
should try to break down the attack and will gain
experience in how to cover a one-down situation.
If a defender gains possession of the ball and
completes one pass to the coach, the attack is over.
Give the ball back to the attackers and have them
build the attack again.
If scoring chances are too infrequent, try increasing
the number of attackers to 5 v 3, or reducing the
defenders to 4 v 2.
And if the attack is scoring too often, try evening
up the ratio and have 4 attackers go against 4
defenders.
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Coaching Points
==============
Offensively, encourage your players to switch the
point of the attack quickly to throw the defense
off balance. Have them play quick both physically
(ie. 1 and 2 touch) and mentally (ie. think ahead).
Instruct your defenders to contain the play and
keep the ball in front of them at all times. Use early
pressure and don't allow space behind the defenders.
