Session: AO.018 ![]()
Exercise Objectives
- Train the players to understand the concepts of possession.
- Develop supporting angles when in possession.
- Develop play through the midfield 3rd.
Organisation

Diagram 1. Set-Up Arrangement
Set-Up
- Mark out a grid is 15 x 25yrds, depending on age and ability of players.
- Split the squad of players to groups of 3's and 5's.
- A supply of balls should be kept close by A1, or any other desired start point.
Instruction(s)
- 2 teams compete in the grid. The attacking players in yellow attempt to keep possession. If the ball is played out of the grid it is a kick-in from where the ball left the field to the attacking team always. The players are structured in a way they are in a match. Starting from A1 as a central defender, A2 as a wide left mid, A3 a center mid, A4 a right mid and A5 a forward. The center player supports the play.
- A1 passes into A3.
- A3 plays a pass out to A2. Simple passing and movement with good angles should be continued until they get to 7 passes in a row.
Scoring
- The attacking team scores by making 7 consecutive passes (this can be increased to 10 if the players are more skilled).
- The defending team scores by one of their players dribbling to any side of the playing grid and putting the sole of their shoe on the ball (The ball must be controlled on the line). Once the defenders have controlled the ball on the line 3 times they switch with the attackers.
Coaching Points
- Discuss how the positions and support are similar to that of a real game.
- The center mid (A3) works to support and connect through the middle of the field.
- Look for eye contact when passing.
- Receive the ball with an open body stance.
- Look for long support as well as short.
- Work angles so players can get the ball to you.
- Passes should be made to players so they can receive open (inside them).
- Wide mids (A2) and (A4) work hard to get up and down the lines to support the attacker (A5) and defender (A1).
- Centre mid player constantly needs to be aware of defenders in limited space (looking over his/her shoulder). Hand contact to know where the defenders are also.
- One and two touch passes.
- Ball speed should be high.
