Week 40 Medium Sized Game

Instructions/Setup:

This small to medium-sized game encourages central play with 4 neutral players located around the outside of the playing area. The 4 neutral players are limited to 1 touch and must be used to either retain possession, progress play during the build-up, or create an attacking advantage in wide areas.

The team in possession can use the neutral players to maintain possession or transition the ball to key attacking areas. If a team scores after receiving a pass from one of the neutral players, they will be awarded with a bonus point. This rule encourages the central teams to actively engage with the 4 neutrals both during the build-up and attacking phases.

Coaching Notes:

• Utilizing Neutrals – Encourage players to frequently look for the neutral players as outlets to maintain possession and progress the attack. The neutrals should always be an option, providing extra support in both offensive and defensive transitions.

• Quick Passing and Movement – Players in the central areas should focus on quick, decisive passing and off-the-ball movement to create space. The neutral players can help by providing easy passing lanes and opening up opportunities to attack.

• Wide Play – Players should aim to use the neutrals to switch play and create wide attacks. Focus on getting the ball quickly to the flanks, where players can stretch the defense and create crossing or cut-back opportunities.

• Bonus Point Motivation – Remind players of the importance of using the neutral players to create attacking opportunities. This bonus point rule will encourage more awareness of how to integrate neutrals into the build-up and finishing phases of the game.

Progression 1: Neutral Player Restrictions

Limit the neutral players to only being able to play passes to the central areas or restrict them to a specific side of the field. This will force the central players to make quicker decisions and adapt to changing spaces.

Focus: Improve decision-making and adaptability in build-up play.

Progression 2: Remove the Bonus Point

Take away the bonus point for scoring via the neutral players, and instead introduce a new point system based on key passes or assists involving the neutrals. This will add another layer of tactical thinking and encourage better utilization of the neutral players.

Focus: Encourage tactical awareness and a more strategic use of the neutral players.