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Set Up:

• On a half field, seven attackers go against six defenders. When in possession, the defending team is trying to score on the two small goals (3yds wide).

• Formation for black team: 1-4-2 (#1, #2, #3, #4, #5, #6, #8). Formation for green team: 4-2 (#7, #8, #9, #10, #7, #11). Adjust as numbers allow.

• The ball starts with the coach on halfway line and is played to the black team. If the ball is lost, green team attacks the large goal.

• Normal rules apply (including corners, goalkicks, throw-ins). If a goal is scored, the game restarts with the coach.

Coaching Points:

• Encourage the GK to play short to defenders instead of punting the ball.

• Talk about the shape of the defenders when they have possession. We want options behind, wide and in front of the ball to play.

• Communication.

• Anticipation from backline - Once a defender has the ball, can the other defenders recognize the movements they need to make to create space and do it fast?

• Movement of center mids - Can they provide an option to play forward?

• What are the visual cues of playing into the center midfielders when building out of the back? Make sure the #6 or #8 have time and space to turn. If space is too tight in midfield, then play wide or look to bypass midfield line altogether.