Line Split

Objective

• -Break through a central line
• -Play between defenders
• -Move after the pass

Setup

1. 1Mark two parallel lines of cones with a narrow middle lane between them.
2. 2Players start in pairs or trios on opposite sides of the middle lane.
3. 3Use bibs to separate attackers and defenders if needed.

How to play

1. 1The attacking team tries to play a pass through the middle lane to a teammate.
2. 2Once the ball goes through, the receiving player turns and attacks the next cone gate.
3. 3Defenders work to block the lane and intercept passes.
4. 4Rotate roles every few minutes to keep the practice fair.
5. 5Emphasise quick decisions and good support angles.

Progressions

• +Switch To Score: two switches before scoring
• +Five Second Counter-Press: three seconds to win it back
• +Target Zone Bonus: only goals started from a pocket count
• +Add a competitive scoreline for the last round

Regressions

• -Switch To Score: switch earns a bonus point rather than being compulsory
• -Five Second Counter-Press: eight seconds and fewer opponents
• -Target Zone Bonus: widen the pocket zones
• -Simplify the area or the service until success returns

Variations

• -Switch To Score — A goal only counts after the ball has been switched from one side of the pitch to the other.
• -Five Second Counter-Press — On losing the ball the team has five seconds to win it back before dropping into shape.
• -Target Zone Bonus — Extra points for playing into marked pockets between the lines before finishing.
• -Overload Rotation — One team plays with an extra player for two minutes then the overload rotates.
• -Restart Realism — All restarts are played as in a match — throw-ins, goal kicks and corners rather than a coach ball.
• -Two-Goal Decision — Each team attacks two small goals, so defenders must decide which threat to cover.
• -Limited Touch Build-Up — Maximum three touches in your own half, unlimited once you pass the halfway line.
• -Flip the practice to the opposite side of the pitch

Common mistakes

• -Passes not reaching the target
• -Players too flat in support
• -Forcing the lane when it is closed