Soccer Numbers Up, Numbers Down Training Drill
Setup
- 2 teams
- grid (40yds x 50yds)
- cones to mark off area
- 4 cone goals (4-5yds)
- pinnies
- 15-25 min
Rules & Objectives
- each team defends and attacks 2 cone goals
- teams can score by dribbling through cone goals
- each time a goal is scored the goal scorer must dribble around the grid twice before he can rejoin the game
- team with most goals after 10 minutes wins
Variations
- limit number of touches
- vary number and position of cone goals
- each time a goal is scored the goalscorer has to leave the grid (3v4) and remains out of the game until the
- opposing team scores a goal
- the team with one more player on the grid than the other team has to play two touch
- adjust spacing depending on the age and ability of the group if necessary
Coaching Points
- Attacking: quick transition
- Attacking: switch point of attack
- Attacking: deception
- Attacking: set up defender
- Attacking: change of speed &direction
- Attacking: protect the ball
- Attacking: close control
- Attacking: angle, distance and timing of support
- Attacking: vision
- Attacking: body position - open to field
- Attacking: decision making
- Attacking: verbal and visual communication
- Defending: angle and speed of approach
- Defending: control and restraint
- Defending: delay and channel
- Defending: angle and distance of cover
- Defending: intercept pass
- Defending: change role of pressure and cover
- Defending: visual and verbal communication
