Leipzig Breaking Lines

Instructions/Setup:

This penetration drill is designed to develop quick ball circulation and effective line-breaking passes. Four players will be positioned in the middle zone and their objective is to block or intercept forward passes. The two teams of 4, positioned in either end zone, will work together to play and receive passes, using movement and positioning to manipulate the opposition block. The goal is to create and exploit a line-breaking opportunity through precise passing and movement.

The practice helps improve passing accuracy, spatial awareness, and the ability to break through defensive lines under pressure.

Coaching Notes:

• Quick Ball Circulation: Encourage players to circulate the ball quickly within the team, using short, sharp passes to move the opposition block and create gaps for forward passes. The tempo should remain high to stretch the defense and create openings.

• Recognizing Passing Lanes: Players should constantly scan the field to identify potential passing lanes. Encourage players to look for spaces between the defenders or to break through defensive lines with incisive passes when possible.

• Movement off the Ball: Players in the end zones should move dynamically to offer passing options. Their positioning should be fluid, always looking to stretch or shift the opposition’s defensive structure and create new passing opportunities.

• Defensive Awareness: Players in the middle zone should be proactive in blocking or intercepting passes. They must communicate and position themselves to close down passing lanes quickly and force the attacking team to recycle the ball.

Progression 1: Add a Time Limit for Progression:

Introduce a time limit for completing a line-breaking pass (e.g., 30 seconds). This encourages faster decision-making and helps players understand the urgency of breaking defensive lines.

Focus: Improves tempo and decision-making under time pressure, pushing players to recognize and exploit opportunities more quickly.

Progression 2: Limit Passes to One or Two Touches:

Limit players to one or two touches to increase the pace of circulation and challenge them to make quicker, more accurate decisions.

Focus: Enhances passing accuracy and quick decision-making, forcing players to execute under pressure and with limited touches.