This practice game helps teams train their attacking, defending, heading, passing, and transition skills.
Set-up and Play
Begin with players at each spot: a, b, and c (as in frame 1)
a is the server
b is the attacker
c is the defender
Using his hands, a serves a ball to c who heads it to b (frame 1)
The server then moves to the back of group b
Player b immediately dribbles toward the goal line setting-up for a cross; c defends the cross
Optionally have a 4th player that can serve as the intended receiver of the cross
Player b simulates a cross
The “cross” should end with player c in possession of the ball
Player c defends the cross and immediately looks to transition into the attack by passing the ball to the next player at spot a (frame 3)
Player c immediately sprints to the back of spot a ; player b sprints to spot c and prepares to act as the defender (c) (frame 4)
Repeat with current group of players
Coaching Point
Upon gaining possession of the ball, player c should immediately look to find passing options (in this case, group a), distribute the ball, and get into position to assist the attack.
Variation
For added difficulty, change the starting point for each new person at group a so that c had to find the “open player” before passing.