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Find the target
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Exercise description:

Set up is shown using 6 players. In a 15 x 15 space. Two attackers are placed in a 5 x 15. Three defenders are in the central 5 x 15 and a target player is in the end zone that has two mini goals at the end-line.

1. The coach serves in a ball to the two attackers. When they get the opportunity, they attempt to split the three defenders and find the target player.

2. Can the target player play 1 or two touches to score on a mini-goal.

3. The defenders move as a unit and stop the ball from reaching the target. If they do win the ball, they play a 3v2 against the two attackers and attempt to get the ball past the end-line.

4. Switch the roles of the players.

Coaching points:

A quick movement of the ball

The body shape that allows fewer touches

Always looking forward

Striker is looking to find the gaps

Defenders - Move as a unit, pressure cover, balance

Intended outcome:

  • To improve the quality of a forward pass

  • Help players to be looking forward for options before the ball arrives at their feet

  • Improve communication

  • Improve quick play and passing

  • Help the defenders work as a unit

  • Instill competition

  • Realistic actions

Variations:

Add mini-goals for defenders to score on if they win the ball

Once the ball is played to the target player, a defender can move into their zone

Possible Performance Problems:

The two attackers turn it into a passing exercise with each other and play too many passes. The target player does not move to find the gaps. The target players' body shape is wrong or the pass made to them has no thought process.

The defenders stay in a straight line.

Be ready to focus

Keep scanning the area and visualize playing in a game.

Accept mistakes - Find solutions

Coach your teammates

Communicate

Applaud good play

Be ready to pass or receive the ball

Reactions

Be willing to move

Make the tackle

Body shape

Quality of the pass

Scan the field

Defend as a unit

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