Week 23 Interchanging Positions (Technical)

Instructions/Setup:

This technical Y passing drill encourages one-twos around the corner and well-timed movement to receive passes on the front foot to finish. The practice takes place in a 25 by 25-yard area. Set up two cones in a Y-shape, with one player at the base and one at each of the top points of the Y. Players pass the ball to each other while working on one-twos and timing their runs to receive passes on the front foot and finish. After each pass, players follow their pass and move to the next available position in the sequence. Ensure players work both sides alternatively to develop their passing and movement in different directions.

Coaching Notes:

• Quick and accurate passing – Encourage players to pass quickly and accurately while ensuring the ball is always played with enough pace to facilitate smooth movement and create goal-scoring opportunities.

• Timing of movement – Players should focus on the timing of their runs, ensuring they are moving in sync with the ball and always on the front foot to receive the next pass with the intention of taking a shot at goal.

• One-two combinations – Emphasize the importance of executing one-twos effectively, making sure the return pass is weighted well enough to allow the player to continue their movement smoothly towards the goal.

• Fluid transitions – After each pass, players must follow their ball and rotate to the next position to keep the flow of the drill constant. This promotes constant movement and helps players maintain a high tempo during the practice.

Progression 1: Add a Defender

Introduce a defender into the practice who can apply pressure on the attacking players. The attacking players must now work even more on their timing, passing accuracy, and quick decision-making to beat the defender and complete the one-two combinations successfully.

Focus: Improve the players' ability to make quick, decisive movements and passes while under pressure, helping them develop the necessary skills to break down defenses in match situations.

Progression 2: Add Finishing

After completing the one-two combination, the final player in the sequence must finish on goal. This could be a shot with either foot or a header, depending on the delivery. The addition of a finishing element adds pressure and realism to the practice, helping players become more clinical in front of goal.

Focus: Improve the players' ability to finish after executing a combination play, maintaining composure under pressure, and developing different finishing techniques based on the type of delivery.