Week 13 9 & 10 Combos

Instructions/Setup:

This practice takes place on a full half of the pitch and focuses on developing the movement and combination play between the striker (9) and the attacking midfielder (10). The setup involves creating a situation where the attacking midfielder has the ball and looks to combine with the striker in various ways, including one-two combinations, wall passes, and through balls.

The attacking midfielder starts with the ball and attempts to create a goal-scoring opportunity for the striker, who will make runs into different areas of the attacking third to receive the ball. Players will rotate positions and change roles to ensure both the 9 and 10 get an opportunity to work together in different scenarios.

Coaching Notes:

• Movement off the ball – The striker should make intelligent runs to either create space for the midfielder or receive the ball in dangerous positions. The attacking midfielder should be aware of the striker's positioning and time their passes accordingly.

• Passing timing and accuracy – Emphasize the importance of the timing of the pass. The attacking midfielder should play passes that allow the striker to run onto the ball at speed, while the striker should make runs to create passing lanes.

• One-two combinations – Encourage the striker and attacking midfielder to engage in one-two passes, allowing them to break down the defensive lines quickly. The key is for both players to be in sync and aware of the other’s movement.

• Off-the-ball support – The attacking midfielder should constantly scan the field to find spaces for combination play and be ready to link with the striker. The striker, in turn, should hold their position to receive passes or drop deeper to create space.

• Finishing under pressure – After the combination play, the striker should focus on finishing the chance with composure, while the attacking midfielder should be prepared to support and follow up on any rebounds or second-phase opportunities.

Progression 1: Add Defenders

Introduce defenders to increase the challenge. The attacking midfielder and striker will now need to work together to beat defenders through combination play. The defenders will aim to intercept passes or block shooting lanes, forcing the attacking players to be quicker and more precise in their movement and passing.

Focus: Improve the combination play and decision-making under pressure, particularly in tight spaces where defenders are applying pressure.

Progression 2: Create a Scoring Opportunity

Now, set up a full game scenario where the attacking midfielder and striker work together to break down a defense. The focus will be on creating goal-scoring opportunities through quick combinations, and the striker should aim to finish when presented with a chance.

Focus: Develop the understanding between the striker and attacking midfielder to work as a cohesive unit, with an emphasis on finishing the created chances.