Lewis Ball

25 Soccer Coaching Sessions:

Attacking sessions, Transition to
attack sessions,
Possession Drills U12 – Senior Level

Lewis Ball

Lewis Ball
Lewis Ball

Lewis Ball: Coaching Booklet:

I have put this coaching booklet together to relay my knowledge and experience in football back to other
coaches as I feel it’s very important to help out fellow coaches to develop themselves, as well as ensure we as
coaches have the right tools and sessions to encourage and develop the next generation of football players as
well as already established senior players at amateur, semi-professional and professional level.

Currently I hold a full UEFA B license which I passed at 19 years old in 2017/2018. I have strong ambitions of
achieving a UEFA A license before 2021 (which I started in May 2019) and going onto to be a full-time
professional football coach at a Category 1 academy and or a full-time manager in the professional game.
Hopefully this booklet can help inspire fellow coaches to go outside their comfort zone as a coach to achieve
their goals and improve and develop as a coach. This will then allow you to challenge and get the best out of
your players as individuals and as a team.

Personally, I believe as a coach you must always have a reason on why you are delivering each coaching
session as well as allowing players to challenge and ask questions. By having a reason, objective and view on
why you delivered a certain session it will allow you to educate the players better through coaching points as
well as answering questions from players if they challenge. It will also enable you to add different ideas into
the sessions such as the what IF’s. Depending on the age group of players your sessions will be structured
through development purposes, technical and tactical as well analysis from previous games. Younger age
groups should be focusing on development and technical sessions though when the players are older and
playing at a higher level then it can be structured through points of previous games as well as upcoming
opponents and how you want to prepare through how to setup defensively and how you want to play in
possession to give your team the best possible chance of coming away with a win.

I think it’s vital that at any group or level that we ask questions in our sessions along with telling the players
what to do, this is guided discovery as well organising players and units to ensure they know what Is expected.
It’s important for the players learning and development as its forcing them to engage and think more about
the situation they are in. I also believe sometimes players just need to be shown what to do in certain areas of
the pitch and situations they may be in as pointers. As well as the questions I feel a lot of coaching points
coaches do, do not have enough detail or options in them and can force players to be one dimensional in their
play. When delivering a coaching point, I think it’s imperative that we offer at least 3/3 different options as
well as the players own thoughts. Look at it like a ripple effect start with the problem and work your way out
to effect and include the rest of the players on what they can do to offer support and effect the opposition.
Again, include the what if’s show the coaching point move defenders to be realistic but also know what if the
defender reads this pass etc. Then show a new option and ask the players questions on how to resolve and
beat the defender. Personally, this is where I find the most development in players in games and practise as
they are being challenged as well as having to be mentally switched on and think about the game a lot more,
this also helps players become more tactically aware as well technically.

The sessions in this booklet will be mainly focusing on sessions based on your team being in possession using
the principles of attack which are on the next page. Sessions that are included can also be used for different
topics such as defending, pressing and other attacking topics, they are for support and guidance and for
coaches to also tailor them to their own needs. The sessions can also mix and matched with other sessions and
link in with other areas of football. Types of sessions included are:

• Attack v Defence
• Possession sessions
• Transition session (defence to attack, also how quickly can you attack versus a transitioning defender) – when
coaching must include how to defend/press to enable them players to win the ball and transition. First touch etc
• Attacking movements
• Finishing sessions
• Outplaying the opponents
• Attacking overloads, 1v1, 2v1, 3v2, 4v3 etc

Lewis Ball
Lewis Ball

Contents:

In this booklet you will find quality sessions that I have put together either myself or I have seen throughout
my career as a football coach. These sessions are designed to ensure a high level of intensity throughout the
session while also challenging players and ensuring development no matter the age or quality. The sessions
will work the players mental attributes as well as their physical.

This would be in terms of being smart on the ball and thinking quickly in tight areas and fast paced
environments. We want to build football players not robots, players will be encouraged to be creative and
through these sessions I have seen personal development in players abilities through quick thinking, decision
making and quality on the ball, as well as improvement in being able to play a killer pass, reverse pass and be
comfortable under pressure. Sessions can also be varied to suit your teams’ abilities, number of players and
their needs. When giving coaching points do not be afraid to show good points of what the players have done
well, this will only push them on and encourage them to get better.

These sessions link in with my philosophy as a coach as I also want my teams to play out from the back, play
their way out of trouble and a high press, be comfortable on the ball in a 1v1 situation, have the ability to
transition by winning the ball high up the field and turning defence into attack very quickly. I also want
technically good players who can bring players into the game, create something from nothing and be
unpredictable for the opposition. I feel it’s vital for teams to have all the tools in the football as it allows them
to overcome so many different situations in a game such a team sitting deep, a high press, do we need to play
short to then look direct as well as how can we penetrate a team. I also feel it’s imperative to include technical
and tactical coaching points when coaching a session.

1. Possession against high pressure/ Keeping Possession on Transition to attack

2. Attack v Defence with a focus on movement and Finishing
3. Attacking Overloads/Attacking v a transitioning defender/outplaying the opponent
4. Playing against tight marking and high pressure
5. Principles of attack – Possession in Tight areas
6. Playing Through the thirds
7. Transition from defence to attack through crossing and finishing – coaching one team how to
defend and instantly attack
8. Crossing and finishing / Getting the ball wide to attack– Principles of Attack
9. Finishing session
10. Playing in a midfield 3 - possession session – 433 formation
11. Penetrating to Finish – Principles of Attack
12. Creating space to attack / Attacking dribbling
13. UEFA Playing out from the back to keep possession / rondo session
14. Playing out from the back Phase of play
15. Penetration / playing between the gaps
16. Penetrating to get in behind the opponents / playing between the gaps Rondo
17. Switching the play
18. Switching the play in the final third – functional / phase of play practises
19. Counter Attacking at speed from midfield / attacking after regaining possession
20. Counter attacking direct from deep
21. Attacking from wide areas – functional / phase of play
22. Midfield setting up play / forward passing and support – 1v1 / 2v2 / 3v3
23. Attacking Centrally: principles of attack
24. Small sided Games 1v1, 2v2, 3v3
25. Developing Support play – 4 corner possession

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Principles of Attack and Quotes:

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Lewis Ball

Session 1: Possession against high pressure / Keeping Possession on transition to attack:

Warm Up:

6v6 possession game. White team keep possession in their half while the blue
team sends two defenders to press and gain possession. Once in possession the
must transfer the ball to their half with the white team then sending two
defenders to press. Every 10 passes = 1 goals.

Progressions:

1. Add extra defender if one team are dominating possession

2. Penetrating pass = 2 passes towards the goal of 10
3. Limited to 2/3 touches in possession

Opposed Skill Development:

5V5 + 2 Target players in each half. Objective is for the team in possession to get 3
passes in possession and switch the ball to the free target man in the other half.
Once the pass is played every player must move into that half. If the defensive
team win possession, they can switch immediately but must then get 3 passes in
the next zone.

Progressions:

1. If successful increases passes need to 5 – 10 passes

2. No target men, players play a pass into the next zone for someone to
make an attacking run onto - penetration

Opposed Development Game:

5v5 possession v high pressure game. Blue team keep possession with every 5 passes = 1
goals. They have two target players on the outside. White team must press and win
possession. Once they win possession their aim is to transition and score as quick as possible.
Play 4 - 5-minute high Tempo rounds then swap over the roles of the teams.

Progressions:

1. When scoring it must be a one touch – can play to goalkeeper for them to set the
ball for the strike or add target man
2. Must be inside the end zone before finish
3. If you the defending team score they game possession if not they carry on
pressing
4. 5V5 game with target men in end zone as it must be one touch finish and a set
from a target man – score in either goal

Coaching Points: Ripple effect, What IF’S, 2 – 3 options, ask questions,

how can we effect the opponent

• Off the ball movement to create and exploit space – awareness and
communication
• Creativity on the ball – give and go, reverse pass, penetration,
switching
• What to do when in transition and attack quickly
• Technical and Tactical points -WHAT IFS
• Can we keep possession short draw pressure to then penetrate
through them?
• Attacking movements
• Transition to Attack – how to defend / press to win possession then
what do we do with it and what can out attack players now do?

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Lewis Ball

Session 2: Attack v Defence with a focus on attacking movements and

finishing in a game/possession environment:
Warm Up:

P1 takes on the mannequin using a different advanced skill each time and takes a
shot. P1 then spins and plays 1-2 combo with P2 who shoots, P2 gets into the box,
P1 arcs their run and receives of P3 and plays penetrating through ball for P3 to
then cross to P1 and P2.

Progression:

1. One touch finish from P2 and from the cross.

2. P2 – p1 – p3 – p2 who runs around left mid mannequin for through ball
for finish, p1 and p3 do the same combo after
3. Different attacking combo’s that work, add defenders also where and
when needed

Opposed Technical Development:

Two halves 3 attackers v 2 defenders in each. Objective is defenders play out and
look to find their attackers to have a 3v2 attacking overload. We want to see
elements of the warm up in this as well as attacking creativity and movement. Look
at runs In behind, overlaps, underlaps, reverse passing, penetration. Principles of
Attack

Progression:

1. One touch finish or beat a defender 1v1 to score

2. If you score your team start with possession
3. One floating for each team that can enter both attacking and defensive
half – can play direct into other half from gk

Opposed Technical Game:

5v5 + 2 possession finishing game. Red start in possession and look to finish quickly
in the mini goals on the side of the field. Blue win possession they look to score in
either goal v goalkeeper. High intensity and encourage lots of shooting.

Progressions:

1. Reds needs 3 – 5 passes before scoring

2. If you score you start with possession from a GK or coach
3. Limit touches players have to encourage quick combinations and
shooting
4. Both teams must have one touch finish, reds can use neutrals to set
them up for the one touch shot

Finish with 5v5 – 7v7 game.

Coaching Points:

• Technical points – body shape, awareness, arcing run, accuracy

of shot timing of run and pass
• Off the ball movement to create space also how to create that
extra yard of space for a shot
• What and how can we use quick combinations to get a shot on
goal and effect the opponents – drag the defender in to
penetrate
• Speed of the attack and transition

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Lewis Ball

Session 3: Attacking Overloads/Attacking v a transitioning

defender/outplaying the opponent:
Warm Up / Opposed Skill Development:

Continuous 1v1 looking at attacking against a transitioning defender on how

quickly we can attack and score and also how to exploit that space. As soon as you
have attacked you must transition and defend against the opponent attacker.

Progressions:

1. Competition – make it more competitive for the players first team to 10

goals wins
2. Game doesn’t stop until the ball Is dead, if the defender scores their
team keep attacking and the opponent on the field now defends.
3. Attacking Overloads

Opposed Skill Development:

Player 1 from the red will attack and have a free shot, straight after the shot 2
blues attack 2v1 against red. Once over reds will play a 3v2 attack against the blue
team. Finally, blue team have a 4v3 against the red. This must high tempo and
continuous. New players added each attacking wave. Competition element still
included.

Progressions:

1. New player can only enter when a goal is scored, or ball is out of play.
2. Must be past half way line to score.
3. Last player entrance is a 2 – 3 minute 4v4 / 5v5 game.

4v3 attack v defence game / Opposed Game with fun restrictions and Scenarios:

5v5 / 6v6 game, both teams can start by scoring in either goals. If you score you
get to eject an opposing player for 30 seconds. If you can eject all their players so
the have none left, you win and they must do a fun punishment. – focus is on
creating a numerical advantage and then how to capitalise on that advantage. If
the team with a man down score they eject and bring their player back in –
football dodgeball.

Progressions:

1. Team now only attack one goal

2. Normal football match

Coaching Points:

• Speed of the attack and movement to create space to exploit

• When creating overload how can we full effect the defence and
punish them
• Technical and tactical points
• When to pass, dribble or shot
• How can the defensive team and attacking team both transition
to penetrate and score goals
• Principles of attack

Lewis Ball
Lewis Ball

Session 4: Playing against tight marking and high pressure:

Warm Up Skill Development:

Players in a group of 3 in a 10x10/15x15 area. player on the outside serves the ball
into first player who will be passively marked by a defender, player holds ball up
and uses any skill they can to get around and explode to the outside. Attacker then
becomes server, server becomes defender, and defender becomes the attacker.
ENSURE transition, skill and movement are all done at a high intensity. Body shape
should always be side on. Must be HIGH TEMPO.

Progressions:

1. give players 3/4 advanced skill moves that they could try - E.G Reverse
step over, maradona, ronaldo chop,
2. players can check off the defender to receive and face forward,
defenders can tackle

Opposed Technical Game:

Playing against tight defending/lose your marker game. Each team has 2 neutrals
on the outside for support who cannot be tackled. Players in middle each pair up
with an opponent who they must stay with the entire game. Aim is dribble into any
of the six zones, outside get you get 1-point middle zones get you 2 points. Receive
and hold up and look to beat the defender.

Progression:

1. beat a defender and score double points

2. if your partner scores you must change with a neutral and do 3 push ups
3. if you pass to a neutral swap place
4. no end zones teams now look to score in the small goals back to back or
can be big goals with GKS

Opposed Technical / Tactical Game:

5v5 / 6v6 / 7v7 game with 1 neutral and 2 goalkeepers. Players must pick
and stay tight to the same player the whole game. If the player your
marking scores you must do a forfeit while the play goes on. Encourage
movement, risk, one touch and smartness in possession.

Progressions:

1. Goal must be a one touch finish unless you can beat your
marker with skill or taking them on
2. If you score you keep possession
3. If you lose your marker and score they must do a quick forfeit

Finish with game using the reverse goals with both teams having one goal
only to score in.

Coaching Points:

• Movement off the defender to create an extra yard of space

• Awareness, checking shoulders and good body shape
• First touch is important do you take it away from defender or
play a one pass set and
• Creativity and skill used to beat the defender
• Attacking movements as well as principles of attack.
• Holding off the defender to keep possession - technical

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Session 5: Possession in tight areas:

Warm Up:

3 teams of 4 with 1 ball each. Within the grid teams pass and move with their
team only playing through the other 2 teams.

Progressions:

• Players must perform a skill/turn upon receiving

• Red pass to blue, blue to green, green to red
• Players must drive for 3 seconds when receiving then look to pass
• Back to passing to own team. When the coach calls your number your
press to win the ball – R v B. B v G, G v R. 5/10 seconds to win the ball
for a point if your teams doesn’t lose the ball, they also get a points

Opposed Skill Development:

4v4 in the middle with the other 4 players on the outside as support players.
Teams keep possession in the tight area and achieve I point for every 5 passes
they complete. Outsiders can pass to each other but it wont count towards the
tally of passes needed for a goal.

Progressions:

• 2 passes for a penetrating pass

• Limit players touches to encourage quick movement of the ball
• 10 passes needed for a goal
• If you lose possession you have 3 seconds to win it back or you swap
quickly with the outside players.

Opposed Skill Development Game:

full 4v4 game with one team on the outside as support acting as wingers
and target men. Teams play 3-minute games or the game is over if one
team score 3 goals then switch with outside team.

Progressions:

• 2 goals if you are assisted by the wide players

• can only score by playing to the target man and receiving back
to finish in the goal
• One touch finish

Coaching Points:
• Principles of attack when in possession
• How and when to create and exploit space with off the ball movement
• Creativity on the ball – reverse pass etc
• Speed, accuracy and the weight of the pass
• Body shape, awareness, first touch and communication
• Coach what you SEE
• The WHAT IF’S SHOW MORE THAN 1 OPTION IN ALL YOUR COACHING
POINTS
• Give and go’s

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Session 6: Playing Through the thirds:

Warm up / Skill Development - playing through the thirds:

6v3 - 3 zones 2v1 in each zone or 3v2. Blue team keep possession and
keep the ball moving and work on transferring it from zone to zone using
reverse passes, penetrating passes, switching the play, combinations and
individual creativity along with smart movement off the ball.

Progressions:

• if blue get the ball through all three zones its a point if reds
intercept point to them and we restart
• add goals for reds to score in after transition and blue to score
one touch finish after certain amount of touches
• reds can leave their zones

Opposed Skill Development:

3 zones 3v3 / 4v4 i the middle zone with 1v1 in each end zone. Objective is simple ,
get the ball from one target player to the other.

Progressions:

• 1 player can drop into each zone creating 2v1 can be anyone such as
third man running
• create a 2v1 in attacking end zone and look to score in mini goals.
midfield runners running off striker
• defender can dribble into middle zone and striker can drop into mid
zone to allow other runners into ed zone by creating the space

playing through the thirds Skill Development Game:

Players are locked into their zones apart from the player who passes into the striker from here
they can push into that zone along with the neutral wide players who can enter the final third
zone 4 v 2.

progressions:

• defensive zone must make 3 - 5 passes before looking for midfield zone -
fullbacks can be used to get the passes
• Player who passes to the striker doesn't have to run in let’s try to encourage third
man running and an overload in the box to allow a free midfielder option in a
different zone?
• you can score from any zone
• only way you can leave you zone is by dribbling into the next one to create an
overload such as def into midfield zone
• midfield is free to enter any zone know to press and support
• take away the zones to finish with a game

Coaching Points:

• Third man runs, timing of the run and awareness when making the run
as well the player in possession
• Can the CB drive forward if he has time in the ball into the next zone
• Technical points – body shape, awareness and checking shoulders
• Midfield off the ball movement and how can you move to vacate space
ad affect the defender to enable success. You can check in to receive
even if you are not going to receive
• Set and spin into space
• PRINCIPLES OF ATTACK
• When to rotate and when to receive and look to go forward

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Lewis Ball

Session 7: Transition from defence to attack – coaching one team how to

defend and instantly attack:
Opposed Skill Development: Transitioning from defence to attack:

1 v 2 setup. Defender plays a pass into the attacks who aim to score against the defender. If the
defender wins the possession back, they quickly try and finish into one of the 2 or 3 mini goals.
doesn't matter if they score or not 3 attackers then drive in with the ball which transitions to a
3v2 attack scenario, defender leaves the zone. No. 1 leaves zone during attack and swaps with 3
for next transition. ROTATE SO EVERYONE DOES EACH JOB

Progressions:

• 4v2 when transitioning to attack as the defender will not stay with the attacking
players
• 4v3 with a recovering green defender
• greens can attack the mini goals if they win possession when they defend during
the transition
• red attackers can only join if the red player scores in one of the goals or after they
shoot and miss, they receive a pass of red attack and hold it for 5 seconds or pass to
their team

Opposed Skill Development:

5v5 in one area with one serving neutral player who can act as a
support player if needed. Red team keep possession while the blue
press and transition once they win the ball, they play wide to the
winger who put a cross into the box for 2 attackers and 1 defender.

Progressions:

• Red team can score in mini goals after 5 – 10 passes

• More attackers and defenders can flood the box
• One touch finish inside the box
•

Coaching Points:

• Speed of pressure, arching the run to cut off and dictate the play from a
1v2 into a 1v1.
• Body shape is important as well communication and checking your
shoulder for the other attacker
• When to press and how to press and when to aim to delay the attack and
dictate the play
• Speed of transition how quickly can we turn defence into attack and
score
• Attacking movement to get into the box and when in the box for the
cross being put into attack. Staying in between the posts
• How to use principles of defence to then use principles of attack when
regaining possession
• Timing and awareness when pressuring and challenging

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Session 8: Crossing and finishing / Getting the ball wide to attack – Principles
of Attack:
Warm up / Unopposed skill Development:

Crossing and finishing exercise / attacking combinations - focus on development and technical aspect
such as awareness, body shape, arcing the run, the movement and the finish and the pass. high tempo
6 and 7 swap with 4 and 5 after each cross 1 2 and 3 also rotate positions and follow pass

1 > 2 > 3 > 2 > 5 > cross after each cross pass to the other wing

1>2>1>3>2>5/4

1 > 4 > 2 checks in then spins to offer angle > 3 > 4 or 6 who overlaps

allow 6 and 7 to now overlap or under lap

Players now free play both are encouraged to use elements of what we have just practised

add 2 central defenders and 1 centre midfielder

Opposed Skill Development:

5v5 possession game, the team in possession look to play an attacking pass to either wide player who
put a cross into the box for 2 red attackers’ other wide player and one blue defender. If the reds score
they keep possession if not the blue start in possession.

Progressions:

• More attackers and defenders can enter the box for the cross
• First time finish
• Players need 3 – 5 passes before playing wide players they can also score in the mini goals
for a point and possession to reset offload pressure and find wide players.
• PRINCIPLES OF ATTACK

Opposed Development Game:

3 zones attack versus defence / functional / phase of play exercise

play can start either from a serve in middle players or into a wide player, but it must always go into the middle zone.

players aim to get the ball wide for a cross into the box for a finish - wide players start out as unopposed players as this
allows the red team to attack if they win possession.

Progressions:

• red team become simply just defenders and score in mini goals when in possession, all wingers play for
the blue team
• Left back and right back are introduced a set from the wide player or if they have an opportunity to
overlap if overlapping wide player only has 2 touches
• number 5 can join attack, balls served by coach
• add wide defenders if the numbers are available - 2v1 in wide areas which means better opportunities if
the ball is wide
• 3 passes needed before getting the ball wide just to ensure combinations and game day situations

Phase of play / Game:

Number 5 serves the ball in and joins the attack as a centre back for support. if defenders win
possession, they must score by playing the ball through the wide goals into either the blue right back
or left back. One receiving that fullback then joins the attack instantly tho returns once the ball is
dead and out of play. ensure realistic play with the reds pushing up, dropping etc manage the
defender coach the attacker

progressions

• number 5 becomes a red centre back with coach serving the balls
• 3 and 2 for the blue now become active full backs once the ball is served in – start the
play with full back pass into winger
• aim to finish the session with a game

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Session 9: Finishing session:

Finishing warm up / skill development:

first pattern is 1 > 2 > 3 shoot after the first shot 5 > 2 > 4 > shoot, alternate shots so both
sides at a high intensity - look at movement off the cone, receiving, the pass, body shape,
communication and the finishing.

Progressions:

• 1 > 2 > 2 drives towards 3/4 and plays straight ball into for a one time shot
• 1 > who dummies and lets ball go to 4 > 2 > finish, progression of this is 4 > 2 >
4 > shot
• 1 > 2 > 3 > 2 > reverse ball into 4 and finish

Opposed Skill Development:

3v3 + 3 / 4v4 + 4 quick fire finishing game inside the 18 yard box. working on quick
finishing, movement and creating that yard of space for a shot

team in possession must try to score and can use team mates and outside team for
support on the ball. 3 minute games winner stays on / first team to 2 - 3 goals

progressions:

• double points for a one touch finish after being set up

• 2/3 touches only

Technical / Tactical Development Game:

3v3 + 3 / 4v4 + 4, field is are 35/40 yards long. Same type of game as before
only teams can score in both goals - 3/4-minute games or first team to 3 goals

progressions:

• Teams must score a one touch finish by using the support players
beside the goal to set them up
• Teams can only score in one goal
• Double points for a long-range goal

Finishing with a free play game.

Coaching Points:

• Body shape, checking off defender, arching the run and checking your
shoulder
• Timing of the run as well as the weight of the pass and accuracy and power of
the shot
• Movement and creativity to create a yard for a shot or laying it off for a team
mate
• When to run, pass or shoot
• Awareness off defenders, space, team mates and the goalkeeper’s movement

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Session 10: Midfield Rotation in a 433 / Playing in a midfield 3:

Warm Up / Skill Development:

half of the players on the outside, half of the players in the inside in possession of a ball
each. Players dribble around looking for a free player to pass to create an angle then
receive back off on the back or event front foot. 2 minute rounds then rotate players
round.

progressions:

• receive the ball using any skill move, show examples

• play in pairs of 2 receive and find your partner
• receive play back to support player who plays it to your partner, whoever
passes to the support player then swaps places

Opposed skill Development:

4 outside neutral players with either 2 or 3 midfielders in the grid. Players in possession
pass and move and get 1 goal for every 3 - 5 passes. work on rotation, principles of attack,
dropping in to create space to spin into as well for teammates.

progressions:

• each team will have 2 target players each facing each other who they must play
to for points. once you pass to one you must get it to the other one
• swap with target man when you pass to them
• 2 - 3 touches
• 10 passes also = 1 goal

Opposed Technical / Tactical Game:

Back 4 round the outside as blue support players with a striker and the midfield 3 versus
either 3 / 4 / 5 defenders. Objective for the blue team is keep possession in the midfield
as every 5 passes = 1 goal. If the defenders win the ball, they look to score in the mini
ASAP.

progressions:

• when the defenders win possession outside blue player push inside the box to
regain possession
• if the blue team can get the ball to the striker after 3 passes its also a goal
• if blue attackers get 8 - 10 passes they can score in the mini goals also
• 2-3 touches only
• CBS can drive into the middle grid

7v7 Game:

Coaching Points:

• Technical points – body shape, awareness and checking shoulders

• Midfield off the ball movement and how can you move to vacate space ad
affect the defender to enable success. You can check in to receive even if you
are not going to receive
• Set and spin into space
• PRINCIPLES OF ATTACK
• When to rotate and when to receive and look to go forward

Lewis Ball
Lewis Ball

Session 11: Penetrate to Finish: Principles of Attack:

Finishing warm up / skill development:

first pattern is 1 > 2 > 3 shoot after the first shot 5 > 2 > 4 > shoot, alternate shots so
both sides at a high intensity - look at movement off the cone, receiving, the pass, body
shape, communication and the finishing. Pass must be on the inside of the cone to
penetrate

Progressions:

• 1 > 2 > 2 drives towards 3/4 and plays straight ball into for a one time shot
• 1 > who dummies and lets ball go to 4 > 2 > finish, progression of this is 4 > 2
> 4 > shot
• 1 > 2 > 3 > 2 > reverse ball into 4 and finish

Opposed Skill Development:

3V3 penetration game, neutral player can added if needed. Two grids,
objective is to keep possession then play a penetrating pass into the end zone
for an on running attacker to finish. Both teams attack and defend

progressions:

• 3 passes before penetrating

• One touch finish
• can pass to a team mate in the end zone
• all player can enter the end zone

Technical / Tactical Development Game:

5v5 / 6v6 in the middle zone with 2 wide neutrals if needed. Players keep possession
then look to play a penetrating pass into either end zone for a teammate to run onto
and finish on goal. Timing of the key, awareness and type of run is vital.

Progressions:

• anyone can enter the end zone when the pass is played
• Attack one side only
• wide players only have 3 touches
• no end zones - full size game

Finish with full size game.

Coaching Points:

• Combinations we can use to penetrate

• Body shape, awareness and off the ball movement
• How to create space to exploit
• Timing and type of run made in behind
• Accuracy of the finish and the pass
• Combinations ad third man running

Lewis Ball
Lewis Ball

Session 12: Creating space to attack / Attacking dribbling:

Attacking dribbling warm up:

half of the players on the outside and half on the inside with a ball. Red players dribble
out play a pass to an outside player and swap positions, Blue player take a positive
touch and drive into the box to perform a turn / skill before then playing to an outside
player

Progressions:

• add specific turns such as ronaldo chop, inside outside hook, fake rabona, step over,
scissors, neymar and neymar with a spin
• free play players perform any skill they want
• when you pass to outside act as a passive defender to allow that player to take you on
before the mini grid

Opposed Skill Development:

5 v 5 / 6 v 6 with one floater if needed. Objective of the game is to create space to then
dribble and attack any of the 5 gates.

Red gates are worth 1 point. blue square is worth 2 points. Look to be direct and as
attacking as possible.

Progressions:

• first touch through the gates or an attacking skill move to get through
doubles your points
• Add next zone so after 3 - 5 points player can dribble through end zone to
put an attacking cross into the box for their team mates

Opposed Development Game:

5v5 with 1 striker / defender from each team in the box. teams look exploit space and
drive into the wing boxes to then put in a cross for the striker and 2 on running
midfielders - if you score keep possession if you miss or defender wins the ball their
team starts with possession

progressions:

• 3 passes needed
• if you dribble through blue grid first you can get the ball wide straight away
• wide areas can have a 2v1 with an overlapping player and recovering
defender
• more defenders and attackers can attack the box – dribble through middle
zone for 2v1

Coaching Points:
• Off the ball movement as well creating angles to receive to go forward
• When to dribble and take a player o and when to pass or give and go into
space
• First touch, body shape and awareness of the game
• Technique of dribbling and receiving to dribble. This also includes of
protecting the ball and using both front and back foot
• Communication
• Creativity on and off the ball – TECHNICAL POINTS AND TACTICAL COACH
WHAT YOU SEE
• End product - crossing and finishing

Lewis Ball
Lewis Ball

Session 13: Playing out from the back to keep possession:

Warm up / unopposed skill development:

play starts from both goalkeepers. follow the pattern and follow your pass.
Ensure scanning shoulder and checking off the cone to create an angle to
receive.

progressions:

• 1 > 2 > 3 > 2 > 3 > 4 same on the other side

• 1 > 2 > 3 > 2 > 4 > 3 > 4 same on the other side
• any other combinations you feel would benefit your side while
playing out from the back

TWO zones both start with a 3v1 with the defending striker passing the ball into the goalkeeper to
start the game. Defenders must get 3 passes against the one defender and score in the mini goals,
once the ball goes in the pink then add 2 attackers with a ball to create a 3v3 which doesn't stop
until the ball is dead or one team has scored. Add if defenders win ball 2 attackers leave

progressions:

• if pink player wins the ball they can score or pass to their team mate to involve them,
def win the ball back and look to play out 3v3 plus GK
• if 3v3 players don’t need a certain number of passes when playing out to score
• combine teams
• Continuous play restarts from gk when there’s a goal to keep the game moving, after 3
passes game becomes 4v3 with the 2 pink players pressing early

playing out from the back small sided game / possession setup. 5v5 in the middle with 2
GK'S and 2 neutral full backs on either side of the grid who cannot be challenged.
Objective is to play out from the back and find the opponents goalkeeper with a pass
which counts as a goal. from this the other team now look to drop and try to play their
way out also.

progressions:

• need 3 - 5 passes before finding the opponents goalkeeper

• wide players have 5 seconds on the ball
• scenarios such as 1-0 up in world cup final let the opponents have the ball
and play a low - mid block, while the other look to score as well as press
• Players now try to score past the opposing goalkeeper

7v7 game to finish

Session Coaching Points:

• CB split wide and drop, full backs high and wide, then midfield also off the ball
movement to drag defenders out create space to get into to receive
• Timing and angle of movements, awareness and communication
• If you can’t go forward set back or look for a penetrating pass to keep possession and
shift the defenders – get into the gaps
• Gk movement and distribution and support
• Principles of Attack
• First touch and weight of the pass is extremely important

Lewis Ball
Lewis Ball

Session 14: Playing out from the back: Phase of play:

6v4 - Functional practise / Phase of Play:

Setup – have 2 sides going or rotate players.

red striker will play a shot into the goalkeeper from here players will take up their
game positions and play out from the back with the aim of getting the ball into
one of the three end goals / gates. If reds intercept, they can score - change up
starting positions

progressions:

• Challenge blue team to get a certain number of passes before scoring

• Scenarios - losing 1 - 0 champions league final so reds must press high,
or 1 - 0 up so reds sit off and create a mid-block
• Ball must go through the number 6 / midfielder
• focus on playing through the wide areas
• add players to both teams – change formations e.g 2 strikers press,
rotational blue midfield

Phase of Play:

Reds change between formations such as:

4 - 2 3 - 1, 4 - 1 - 3 - 2, 4 - 1 - 4 - 1, 4 - 3 - 3 this is to allow the blue team to play v

different systems as well as experiment different play styles when playing out
from the back. Look at rotating midfield 3, playing directly wide, keeping the ball
short to draw a press to then play out and penetrate the defending team -
triggers., inverted fullbacks and full backs staying wide. Blue team play 4 – 3 - 3 /
4 – 2 – 3 – 1. – add extra wave of red players to the game when needed.

Again, look at setting challenges for the attacking team as well as different
scenarios for the teams and objectives for individual players to achieve.

Play with game rules, throw ins, corners and goal kicks etc

11 v 11 game:

• 4231v4231
• 4231v433
• Formations can be changed to suit your teams
needs

Coaching points that will allow you to coach what you see and be technical as well as tactical:
• Positioning / shape – 4 and 5 splits while 2 and 3 push high and wide allowing 7 and 11 to either stay wide or tuck in near 9. 6 and 8
are rotational with one dropping to receive and the other getting in a diagonal position. 10 has a free roam to find gaps, stretch the
defenders to create and exploit space. If 6 can’t receive they get out to allow either 8 or 10 to come in.
• Blind spot runs – players look to stay on the shoulder or get in between gaps in behind defensive lines to receive as here the defenders
cannot see you and if they do, they may follow the run the opens space for other players to penetrate and exploit
• Play your way out of danger look to use the goalkeeper to relieve pressure and play out. If they press high can our striker and possibly
midfield push forward to create a gap in which we can look to be direct to beat the press and play out
• Coach all players – ripple affect also the WHATS IF’S and show at least 2 -3 options as well what the player is thinking.

Lewis Ball
Lewis Ball

Session 15: Penetration / playing between the gaps possession:

Warm Up / Skill Development: Penetration / playing between the gaps:

5v2 penetration possession game. Blues keep possession and score every time they get
the ball to the target player or play a penetrating pass that is successful. If reds win
possession, they swap with who played the pass. Rotate target man and defender

Progressions:

• Only score if it’s a penetrating pass into the target player

• Double points if pass is met inside the small box
• defenders play for 3 minutes each if they win the ball they look to dribble
out of the grid or add mini goals to score in

Warm Up / Skill Development: Penetration / playing between the gaps: 4231

/ 433 – 10:

Blue team keep possession while always looking to penetrate and find the
players in the middle with a pass - red team look to intercept and score in
one of the four goals on the outside. Can also have 2 mini goals and 2 big
goals with GK's

Progressions:

• reds must get 3 - 5 passes or 2 penetrating passes before scoring

• if blue team find the target men 3 - 5 times they can score in the
goals

Opposed Skill Development Game:

6v6 inside a 40x40 / 50x50 with 4 corner goals. Teams look to score any of
the 4 goals after 3 passes or 1 penetrating pass, must restart the passes if
intercepted.

Progressions:

• teams need 5 / 10 passes before scoring with a penetrating pas

worth 2 passes.
• blues can only attack the blue goals, reds can only attack the red
goals
• if you score your opposite number must do 20 star jumps while you
play on

Coaching Points:
• Principles of attack when in possession
• How and when to create and exploit space with off the ball movement
• Creativity on the ball – reverse pass etc
• Speed, accuracy and the weight of the pass
• When and how to penetrate the defenders
• Coach what you SEE
• The WHAT IF’S SHOW MORE THAN 1 OPTION IN ALL YOUR COACHING
POINTS
• Give and go’s
•

Lewis Ball
Lewis Ball

Session 16: Penetrating to get in behind the opposition / playing between the
gaps Rondo:
Warm Up:

4 zones, two middle zones are occupied with two different teams who cannot leave
their zone. Their aim is to penetrate the opposing defence into their 2 striker who have
5 seconds to score a goal. The pass must be a penetrating pass and the strikers must be
constantly moving to provide to passing option

Progressions:

• Pass through to striker must be a first-time penetrating ball through

• 2 touch only
• if the team in possession in centre has the ball for more than 30 seconds the
opposing team can send 1 person every 20 - 30 seconds to press, if they win
the ball they can play to the strikers straight away
• defenders can recover to defend v the striker – turn into a game

Opposed Skill Development: Touchdown:

6v6 with the option of either a neutral midfielder inside the grid or 2 neutral wingers
on the outside. Teams can attack both sides to start with. The objective is to play a
penetrating pass into the end zone for a player to run onto and finish within 2 touches.

Progressions:

• Teams now can only attack one end zone with more than 1 players and defender
allowed to enter the end zone to score and defend
• Neutrals can also play into the end zones
• Every 5 passes = 1 goal as well as the penetrating goal
• Add scenarios to force the team out of possession to either press or sit in as these
scenarios will only benefit your team when trying to breakdown or play through a
defensive block or press, in both your third, midfield third and the attacking third

Opposed Skill Development Game:

Same setup as before. Though players can score from anywhere like they
would in a game, the end zones are used as offside lines, if you want to score
inside the end zone you must time your run to stay onside though it’s worth 2
points. Game must be a high tempo with play being restarted from either
goalkeepers or coaches/servers on the outside. You can dribble into the end
zone or play the pass to run onto

Progressions:

• Add scenarios then turn it into a full game to finish off the session

Coaching Points:

• Timing of the run in behind – checking off the get in

front or in behind the defender’s blind spot
• How to create space and how to exploit it as well as
how to affect a defender for yourself and team mates
• Accuracy, weight and the type of pass in behind
• Technical points – body shape, awareness,
communication
• Third man runs and principles of attack

Lewis Ball
Lewis Ball

Session 17: Switching the play:

Opposed Skill Development:

Switching the play - 3 teams of 4 with one team defending. Defenders send 2 players to
press, attacking team plays 3 passes then switches the play into the other team. If you
lose possession quickly transition and swap positions

progressions:

• defenders in the middle can screen and block the switch

• Limit touches to add a challenge
• players must play through the gates when switching
• Must switch the play in own grid before switching to the other team

Opposed Development:

5v5 switching the play gate game. Objective is to switch the play and get through any of the ends
gates by dribbling to score points. Look at switching side to side, front to back and using different
passing ranges short and long with combinations.

Progressions

• point system wide gates = 1 pts middle gate 2 pts

• Teams can only attack one direction
• add goalkeepers behind gates for support as well to block the gates which also forces
the switch
• 5 passes = 1 goals to prevent players sitting deep
• add goals when you dribble through the wide gates you must put a cross in middle
gates you can score in the goal

Opposed Game:

Switching the play gate game into crossing and finishing, teams play same setup as skill
development game tho once they dribble through the gates they aim to play cross into
the box for midfield runners and striker

progressions:

• Diagonal ball in behind for the wingers is allowed to develop the play into
the cross
• Ball MUST be switched before you can score from side to side
• Remove the gates and play 5v5 / 6v6 game encouraging switching the play
using principles of attack - width, support, penetration, creativity

Coaching Points:
• Body shape, awareness and off the ball movement.
Communication
• How can we create space to switch the play and use diff
combinations – mobility, width and support
• Can we keep the ball short to draw the press to then look to
penetrate and switch the play? WHAT IF’S
• Go backwards to go forward, good positive first touch –
accuracy of pass, weight of pass and timing of the run

Lewis Ball
Lewis Ball

Session 18: Switching the play in the final third – functional / phase of play
practises:
Warm Up / Skill Development:

Switching the play passing pattern. Wide player into the middle who opens up
and plays wide. That player receives and plays up the line same pattern
happens on the other side. Players work in a clockwise rotation.

Progressions:

• Pattern 2 – 1 – 2 – 1 – 3 – 4 same on the other side

• Pattern 3 – 1 – 2 – 1 – 3 – 2 – 3 - 4
• 1 touch only

FUNCTIONAL PRACTISE:

Switching the play function 6v5. play starts with full backs serving the ball into
blue team wide player. must get the ball to the wide players to finish in the
mini goals through switching the play. If the red win possession, they score in
the top goal. wide players cannot be challenged

progressions:

• 1 point for successful switch as the red team can now press into the
wide areas
• double points for red team if the full back can bomb forward in
behind and score
• Blue full back who serves can enter to create a 2v1 out wide

Phase of Play:

Attacking third of the field is used for this section. Play starts with either a goal
kick into the midfield or a server playing it into the blue team to attack. Red
team can attack the 3 end goals when they win possession.

Progressions:

• Scenarios to force the defence to sit off or press – 1.0 down final 5 minutes in a cup final
• Whatever goal the reds score in that blue players plays a direct ball to opposite full back
who attacks upon receiving
• Both full backs attack if reds score but drop out when wave is over.

Coaching Points:
• Movement and overloads to force the defence to a position that creates
space and allows the switch of the play
• Awareness, the type of pass and the weight of the pass. Where and when to
play the switch – switching side to side, front to back and diagonal
• Principles of attack – offer width and support to be able to switch and
potentially penetrate
• How to create gaps and affect the defenders that its going to allow us to
switch to get in behind or to keep possession and force the defenders to
keep moving and hopefully lose shape.
• Awareness, body shape and first touch

Lewis Ball
Lewis Ball

Session 19: Counter Attacking at speed from midfield: Attack after regaining possession:

Counter attacking Skill Development:

3v3 in midfield with two wide neutral wingers. Players keep possession and look to find
their striker after 3 passes. If the other win possession, they can counter immediately the
player who passes the ball joins the attack 2v1

Progressions:

- Neutral wingers join the attack with one recovery defender 4v2 idea is use
striker and get the ball wide
- One touch finish
- Defenders in end zone can play into midfield or to striker to counter if tey win
possession

Counter Attacking Game / functional practise:

one grid has either 3v2 or 4v3 with the 4 keeping possession. Blue team must win the
ball then play into one of their front 3. The player who passes the ball can join the attack
4v3

progressions:

- 5 passes and the red team can score in the mini goals
- if red defenders win the ball they can play the midfielders who can counter
and score
- 5v3 counter attack 2 blue attackers now join the attack

Counter Attacking from midfield Phase of Play:

Reds can start with an extra player and start with possession with either a throw in or a goal kick or
blue team losing the ball from a corner kick. They are looking to score in either goals in the blue half /
play to the fullback target men. Blue team are looking to defend / press to win possession and hit
them on the counter attack going to goal. Look at how blues can win the ball and then their transition
and how to counter from midfield. Force teams to commit forward by adding 5 passes is a goal or
have to be past a certain point of the field – realistic.

Progressions:

• Once the blue full back receives, they immediately counter and start up an attack
• Both fullbacks attack once one of them receive
• If blues win the ball in open play then the full back on that side attacks
• Setup 7v7 or 9v9 game

Coaching Points:

• How to setup defensively as well as how to set up a press and apply

the principles of defence to win possession to the apply the
principles of attack.
• Speed of transition how quickly can we get forward, create
overloads and put the opponents on the back foot.
• What to do if the quick counter isn’t on – keep possession and don’t
force the ball forward if there is no options
• Off the ball movement creating space and angles when in possession
along with attacking overloads to create opportunities to score.
• Coach what you SEE
• The WHAT IF’S SHOW MORE THAN 1 OPTION IN ALL YOUR
COACHING POINTS

Lewis Ball
Lewis Ball

Session 20: Counter attacking direct from deep:

High intensity warm up / skill development:

40 x 30. 3 v 3 plus 1 neutral counter attacking from deep game. 3 reds plus neutral start
by attacking the blue team and score by getting across the end line through a dribble or
pass. Once play is done, or blues have defended and win possession they counter attack
with the neutral v the yellow team. yellow then attack the reds, you always replace the
team you have just attacked against

Progressions:

• first team to score 5 goals from counter attacking so attacking from winning
possession through defending wins

Functional Practice:

Two grids, red 4 or 5 play into the red attack i n the other grid who play a 5v4 game to
goal. Once the blue team win possession they look to counter and play into their
midfielders in the other grid who play a 5 v 3 and look to score in the two back to back
mini goals

Progressions:

• red 8 and 10 can recover into the second grid to help defend v the blue
attack
• 2 and 3 can join the blue attack when on the counter
• remove back to back goals and now play to the two end goals going
forward.
• remove zones and create a phase of play or a game

Functional practise / phase of play:

5v5 with a server played with 4 zones. Blues when defending must be in at least 3
zones closest to the player in possession, this shows and encourages the principles of
defence along with compactness which sets us up nicely to counter attack from deep.
Number 10 steps in as a target man for the blues after serving and is used for the blues
to be direct when counter attacking.

Progressions:

• blues get 2 goals for dribble past the end line and 1 goal for scoring in the
end goals.
• reset in different positions such as a corner for the reds, red throw in, direct
pass into number 9.
• Number 10 cannot score unless it’s a 1 touch finish this is to encourage full
backs to break forward in support and apply the principles of attack.

Phase of Play / Game:

8 v 7 phases into an 8 v 8 when in possession. 9 loses possession to 6 who looks to play quickly and
start an attack. Blues must setup to sit in and defend and use the principles of attack to dictate
and delay the pay and force them into a position i which they can press and regain possession and
look to turn defence into attack by counter attacking. Teams must push up with the start of play to
keep it realistic

Progressions:

• add scenarios for the defending team and attacking such as last minutes of a cup final
losing one nil, attacking team are going to pile forward while the blues sit in and park
the bus , blues 1 - 0 down they now need to press slightly higher and look to counter
at speed to score, other scenarios can be used to engage the players into game
situations as well challenging the players and their mind set as well game
management.
• 8 v 8 / 9 v 9 game

Lewis Ball
Lewis Ball

Session 21: Attacking from wide areas – functional / phase of play:

Skill Development:

CB starts by passing into 6 or 8 who plays into the opposite cm who has a good angle, once they
receive they play wide to the wide player who has checked off the mannequin to receive, they
drive and put a cross into the box for the on running striker and midfielder versus 2 central
defenders.

Players rotate positions, have at least 2 wingers each station to keep it flowing

Progressions:

• the pass wide must now be a penetrating one for the winger still checking off then
spinning in behind mannequin
• 6 and 8 drop wide 10 receives sets to 8 who sets for 6 to play wide
• CB into 6 first time to 7 / 11 for 8 to go support and play a penetrating 1 - 2 with the
winger
• when 7 or 11 receive they touch inside and either play 9 , switch to other winger or
reverse ball into overlap
• Be creative with different patterns, try different combinations and movements then
add free play
• add overlapping / under lapping fullbacks and work on their movement and combos
including them
• add central midfielders to defend / add pressure
• defenders win the ball can they score in top goal by being direct

Attacking from wide areas Functional Practise:

right side or left side:

6 v 5 function with one wing cut off to isolate a certain area to work on.
Play can either start from reds losing possession high up the field or losing
possession from a goal kick. Our aim is to overload and exploit the wing
using our wide player and full back for overlaps and under laps, as well as
support from midfield and striker, don’t force the play as it may to obvious
and the best option could be playing through the middle with 7 staying
wide. Reds win possession they look to score in the mini goals

Phase of Play:

8 v 6 / 7, reds lose possession high up the field, blue look to attack and create
opportunities from the wide areas with their wingers, fullbacks and support in the
middle. If the red team win possession, they look to be direct and score in the two
wide goals.

Progressions:

• NO.10 for the reds now becomes a recovery defender after the first blue
pass is played
• 9v9 game no restrictions

Coaching Points:

• Technical points when checking away, arcing the run, type of run made, timing of the run, body shape, awareness and
communication.
• How to create space in the wide areas for yourself to get into, a penetrating pass or for the overlap. Touch inside?
• Movement off the ball and applying the principles of attack by providing width, support and an option to penetrate
• If you cannot attack from the wide areas, they can still be effective by staying wide occupying defenders and also
providing a run in behind the defence if needed
• Coach what you see and include the WHAT IF’S, affect every player like a ripple effect

Lewis Ball
Lewis Ball

Session 22: Midfield setting up play / forward passing and support – 1v1 /
2v2 / 3v3:
Warm up / Unopposed Skill Development:

Each group has 6 players, 2 teams of 2 on the inside with 2 target men on the outside who receive and
play. In their teams the inside players must get their ball from one target man to the other using
different combinations while playing through the other team. Rotate every 3 – 5 minutes adding
different restrictions and points.

Progressions:

• Different combinations – receive of target man bounce back switch to other team mate
who plays a through ball. - 1 – 2 - 1 – 3 – 2 – 4 looks at underlaps, overlaps. reverse ball
• 1 – 2 who dummies for the run of 3 who plays across into the arcing run of 2 then to 4
• check deep for team mate to receive high who sets it back for a first time pass out.
• Must all be one touch and off the ball movement arcing run facing the play and an open
body shape
• Rotation of the player in the middle
• Opposed – play 2v1 3-minute rounds of free play into 2v2

Opposed Skill Development:

2v2 with target men or 3v3 – can be adapted depending on formation you play. Get the
ball from one target man to the other for a point. Target men can be used for support
when building to go forward.

Progressions:

• If you score by doing after playing a penetrating pass its worth 2 points
• Outside target men only have 3 seconds on the ball when they receive in
support
• Swap with the target men when you pass to them – their first touch will be
into the grid
• Limit touches on the ball to add a challenge and move the ball quick in tight
spaces

Functional Practise attack v defence:

5 v 4 in the midfield third of the pitch. 3 goal game red player will serve the ball into the
blue CM which will start the attack, Blues must play through midfield to try and score,
Reds win possession they look to finish in one of the 3 goals as quick as possible. Look at
the different combinations we have went though and movements to see if the blues are
applying them. setup in a 4231-style formation – players can be added

Progressions:

• Red server can enter as a defender 8 seconds after serving the ball as a
recovery defender
• double points if the players can execute one of the harder movements that
was worked on.
• free play - defender recovers once the ball is served

Coaching Points:

• Principles of attack
• Angle of support, off the ball movement to either receive or move defenders
and create space for other players to exploit
• How quickly can you penetrate or play a give and go spin in behind
• Awareness, body shape when moving and receiving and timing of the run,
when to check in to create space in behind
• Coach what you see also look at the combinations that can be used in midfield
in the game type scenarios

Lewis Ball
Lewis Ball

Session 23: Attacking Centrally: principles of attack:

Skill Development:

4v3 / 3v2, number 8 acts a serve to begin with, once the ball is served play is
now lie. Blue team attack centrally and look to score in the goal versus the
goalkeeper. Defender regain possession they score in the two mini goals.

Progressions:

• use the line as an offside line, players must now time their run and
meet a penetrating pass into the end zone to score
• goals from outside the offside line are worth 2 goals
• 3rd man runs
• 8 can now become a recovering defender on the blue teams first
touch

Functional practise / Phase of play:

6v5 with blue team 6, 8, 10 and 9 all restricted the middle grid, 7 and 11 have a free role
to get wide and enter the middle zone also. The red defenders are not locked in they can
go anywhere and press anyone. The idea of this is to exploit and create space either wide
in the middle to then create an overload in midfield and attack centrally while having the
wide options also.

Progressions:

• number 10 for reds can enter as a recovery defender after serving the ball in.
• goals can only score by the central players
• goals can only be scored from a central area
• goals can only be score if assisted from a central player
• 6v6 game

Phase of Play: 4231 v 442 / any formation:

Play starts with both teams pushing high the field and the reds either losing possession
or serving the ball into the blue midfield to start the play. 2 and 3 can enter the play
only if they receive possession, if they both receive the red server / 10 can enter as a
recovering midfielder. If the reds win possession, they look to score in the two end
goals.

Progressions:

• As soon as play is started red no.10 can recover and apply pressure
• Different starting points as well as scenarios and objectives.

Game:

7v7 / 9v9 / 11v11 game depending on the squad number on the day. Set
them up in a realistic formation you use in games as well the most likely
formations you will come up against.

Progressions:

• Change the formation you are playing against from say 433 to a 442
then a 352, it will allow the players brains to trigger and analyse
how to play an attack centrally against different systems.

Lewis Ball
Lewis Ball

Session 24: Small Sided Game 1v1, 2v2, 3v3:

Skill Development: 1v1 line ball:

players e in groups of twos with one lane each. Players play a continuous 1v1 for 2 - 3
minutes per round. Players in possession look to beat the defender and dribble across the
end line for a point. Red players move to a new grid to play a new opponent every round.

Progressions:

• make it a competition for the 2 teams, add all the points up at the end
• players must stop the ball on the end line in order to score a point
• double points for beating the defender with skill moves
• Can also be made into a league format so the winners move up one place, if
you lose you get relegated to the grid below. adds competition and fun to the
game
• join grids together for a 2v2

Technical Skill Development 1v1 line ball:

2v2 game with end lines, defenders serve the ball into the attackers and apply
pressure, attackers must work together and beat the defenders to get across
the end line. Defenders can counter if they win possession.

Progressions:

• 2 points for scoring either by a penetrating pass or taking the player

on and beating them
• If you score your team start as the attackers

Skill Development Game:

3v3 + 1 neutral player to create an attacking overload. The team in the centre start with
the ball and attack one side. The defending team become the attackers and take the
opposite end if they win possession or the ball has gone dead. Teams just replace each
other also in their positions.

Progressions:

• Add 4 goals to score in

• Competition first team to get 5 goals wins, other 2 do a fun quick forfeit
• Must be a first-time finish into one of the 4 goals

Technical Game:

5v5 4 goal game reds v blues. Perfect to encourage switching the play and the principles
of attack as well as defensive compactness and the principles of defence. Teams can
score in either of the two mini goals belonging to the opposition.

Progressions

• Add scenarios that will force players to achieve different targets such as to
press, to sit in, make passes create and take on in 1v1 situations
• First time finish to score unless clearly through on goal

Lewis Ball
Lewis Ball

Session 25: Developing Support play: 4 corner possession:

Developing support play Warm Up:

6 players on the inside with 6 on the outside. Players inside the grid will have a ball each.
They will move around looking to pass to a free man on the outside and receive back,
through dropping at an angle and using the back foot. 2 - 3-minute rounds then swap
over

Progressions:

• pass, then drop to receive/create space then quickly make a forward run for a
through ball
• perform a skill move when receiving or in the middle of the grid
• swap with the outside player as you pass to them
• perform a 1 - 2 give and go when swapping positions
• work in pairs of 2 with one ball per group, must combine in the middle before
playing to the outside.

Opposed Skill Development:

5v5 plus 2 target players for both teams locked into a corner grid. Every time
you get the ball to your target man it is a point. Target man looks to play out
when they receive

Progressions:

• teams need 3 - 5 passes before finding the target men

• whatever target man they pass to they can only score by getting the
ball to the opposite target man.
• the players who passes to the target man swaps positions with them.

Skill Development Game:

5v5 with 2 target support players on the outside for each team. Objective of the game is
to keep possession then play a pass into one of the 4 corner grids for a team mates to
run onto and meet inside the grid for a goal. If you score you keep possession.

progressions:

• you need a certain number of passes before you can score in the corner grids
• can only score if you are set up by one of your target men
• swap places with target men when you pass to them
• You can now only attack two corners each
• Limit the players touches with 1 creative player who has unlimited touches

Coaching Points:

• Principles of attack – how can you get into a position to offer support? Width?
And penetration?
• Off the ball movement to open gaps for teammates to exploit and offer
support
• Keep possession, be patient in the build up to force the defenders to break
shape that then allows us to get in behind and find our passes or have space
to drive into
• Timing of the run, Type of run, communication, accuracy and weight of the
pass
• Set and go, play and spin into space

Lewis Ball
Lewis Ball

Contact me:
Email - [email protected]
Instagram – lewisball98

Lewis Ball
Lewis Ball

Lewis Ball
Lewis Ball

Lewis Ball