Week 25 Passing, Overlapping & Finishing

Instructions/Setup:

This practice focuses on coordinated passing, overlapping runs, movement, and finishing. Set up a 30 by 30-yard area with small goals at each end. Divide the players into two teams. One team will work on creating goal-scoring opportunities through precise passing and overlapping runs, while the other team defends. The attacking team must work together to make accurate passes, create space with off-the-ball movement, and use overlapping runs to break through the defense and finish on goal. Players should focus on timing their runs, quality of passing, and communication throughout the exercise.

Coaching Notes:

• Precise Passing – Players should focus on making accurate passes, ensuring the ball is delivered to the correct area for the next player to receive it with ease. The quality of the pass will dictate the success of the attacking play.

• Timing of Runs – Encourage players to time their overlapping runs effectively, ensuring they don’t run too early or too late. The runner should aim to support the player with the ball, creating an option for a quick, fluid attack.

• Movement Off the Ball – Off-the-ball movement is crucial for creating space. Players should move to open areas to give their teammates a clear passing option and allow for more effective ball circulation.

• Communication – Players should communicate continuously, using verbal and non-verbal cues to let teammates know when they are ready to pass or make a run. Clear communication helps maintain the fluidity of the play and ensures everyone is on the same page.

Progression 1: Add Defenders

Introduce one or two defenders to increase the pressure on the attacking players. The defenders will work on tracking runs and closing down space to force the attacking team to make quicker decisions.

Focus: Develop the attacking team's ability to maintain composure under pressure, ensuring they can still execute precise passes and timed runs while facing defensive opposition.

Progression 2: Small-Sided Game with Offside Rule

Reduce the number of players to a small-sided game (e.g., 4v4 or 5v5) with the offside rule applied. This forces players to focus on positioning and timing of runs while still incorporating the original passing and overlapping principles.

Focus: Improve players' spatial awareness, timing of attacking runs, and their ability to break down defensive lines while playing within a more structured and competitive environment.