Week 30 Third Man Passing Drill

Instructions/Setup:

This drill focuses on developing players' ability to connect with the third man through quick, short passes. The objective is for players to execute passes that create space and allow for effective attacking combinations. The drill should be carried out at game speed, with emphasis on smooth and efficient passing sequences.

Coaching Notes:

• Quick Passing Combinations – Players should focus on executing quick, accurate passes, with minimal touches, to maintain fluidity in the drill. Emphasize the importance of timing and technique in each pass to maintain pace and avoid interruptions in play.

• Third Man Movement – Encourage players to focus on their movement off the ball, especially the third player in the sequence, who will receive the pass. The third man should always be prepared to receive the ball in stride, making a positive run into space to progress play forward.

• Communication – Players should constantly communicate with each other to indicate when they are ready to receive the ball and where the pass should go. Clear communication ensures better timing and coordination, making the passing combinations more efficient.

• Game Speed Execution – Reinforce the need to perform the drill at match intensity. This includes quick decision-making and high-speed passing to simulate the tempo and urgency of an actual game.

Progression 1: Limited Touches

Introduce a limit on the number of touches per player or reduce the time allowed for each pass. This will challenge players to think and execute faster, improving their reaction time and passing efficiency.

Focus: Improve passing speed and decision-making under pressure while keeping the ball moving quickly and accurately.

Progression 2: Add Defenders

Introduce passive or active defenders to challenge the passing combinations. The defenders will force the attacking players to work harder on their positioning, timing, and passing accuracy to break through the defensive pressure.

Focus: Enhance passing accuracy and timing under defensive pressure, while also improving spatial awareness and decision-making when under opposition threat.