Week 44 Build & Finishing

Instructions/Setup:

This practice allows teams to develop their ability to build and progress play through central areas whilst under possession. Teams of 6 (+2 GK) will attempt to retain and progress play whilst under pressure from 2 pressing players. The team building must complete 3 passes before attempting to break lines into the next zone. If the pressing team wins possession, they can attack quickly into either main goal.

Coaching Notes:

• Ball Retention – The team in possession must focus on short, quick passes to retain possession while under pressure. Encouraging close control and scanning the field is key to maintaining possession and finding passing lanes.

• Passing Patterns – Encourage players to focus on breaking the lines with well-timed passes after completing the required 3 passes. Players should aim to switch the ball or play forward passes to advance play into the next zone.

• Pressing Team – The defending players should look to press aggressively and cut off passing lanes, forcing the building team into mistakes. Their main goal is to win the ball and exploit the transition by quickly counter-attacking.

• Finishing in Transition – Once possession is won, the pressing team should focus on making a quick transition towards the goal, using the space created from the overloaded build-up phase to create a clear shot on goal.

Progression 1: Increase Pressing Pressure

Increase the number of pressing players from 2 to 3, forcing the team in possession to work even harder to break lines and progress through the zones.

Focus: Improving decision-making under increased defensive pressure.

Progression 2: Add a Goalkeeper for Each Team

Introduce goalkeepers to both teams, which adds another level of challenge in the final transition phase. Teams must now focus on finishing under pressure with a goalkeeper present.

Focus: Improving finishing under pressure and transitioning from build-up to attack.