1. To train the ability to attack down the flanks.

• Drill No:               AFD2
• Age:                    13-Adult 
• No Players:        12+
• Difficulty:            Medium/Advanced
• Area/Time:         60x45 yrds (2/3 Pitch)  (25 mins)

Mark out a half pitch area.  2 x 5yrd gates are placed behind the half way line, preferably using training poles or flags.  Keep a collection of balls at the half way line for re-starts.

• 6 attackers (Yellow)
• 5 defenders (Orange)
• 1 goalkeeper  (Green)

 A line can be placed just outside the 18yrd box which marks an area that the 3 orange defenders cannot go out of.  This will help with the shape of the game and help create the correct spaces we are attempting to work on.

In the example above the yellow attacking team combines with each other using the flank players to create opportunities on goal. Switch the roles of attacking and defending after 10 minutes. The restart positions can be varied as shown in the progression.  The coach works with the attacking team to identify the key points of attacking down the flanks.  In the above example:

The 6v4 scenario with 2 forwards and 4 midfielders (with 2 of the midfielders positioned wide) helps to create space on the flanks.  This activity is a good progression from AFD1 'Coach a Team In Wide Flank Play'

2 teams compete and attempt to score.  The attacking team scores by scoring on the goal.  The defending team scores by clearing the ball out through the yellow pole gates.

1. Observe the movement of the wide players (A2, A5) to create angles and find space and create width.
2. Exploit space by the wing players checking back for a ball to feet, or come short and then sprint behind for ball into space.
3. Look for space in front and behind the defenders on the wing.
4. Check away from the space you want to create and then sprint into it.
5. Wide player should receive facing into the field and with attacking mentality (attack and dribble or forward pass).
6. Encourage support runs from other attacking players.
7. Forwards making runs clear paths and space for supporting players or the player on the ball.
8. Encourage players to dribble and penetrate when they see space.
9. If the play is slowed down (and inside) on the flank, encourage the near striker to check to the ball for a wall pass.
10. Look for switches of play to find space, this should be easier with the 2 wide midfielders.

1. Restart pattern should be - Centre Midfielder passes to other Centre Midfielder, then to the Right Mid.
2. Restart pattern should be - Centre Midfielder passes to other Centre Midfielder, then to the Right Mid.
3. Restart from the Goalkeeper kicking or throwing the ball out to a Center Midfielder.

1. Remove the line which restricts the 3 defenders if you choose to have one.