Numbers Up Attack

Objective

• -Exploit an overload
• -Attack quickly when numbers improve
• -Make the extra player count

Setup

1. 1Mark a 30 x 24 yard pitch with two mini goals.
2. 2Play a game such as 3v2, 4v3 or 5v4 that changes when a goal is scored.
3. 3Use bibs and a spare ball for quick restarts.

How to play

1. 1One team starts with a player advantage near the ball.
2. 2They must use the extra player to move defenders and create a chance.
3. 3When possession changes, the other team attacks the opposite goal immediately.
4. 4The coach can add or remove a player after each goal to keep the challenge fresh.
5. 5Keep the game short, lively and competitive.

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

• -Standing in a crowd with the ball
• -Ignoring the extra player
• -Slow reaction in transition