Channel Cut-Off

Objective

• -Close space quickly
• -Cut off the forward path
• -Win the ball and counter

Setup

1. 1Make a central channel with cones and two wide channels either side.
2. 2Split players into two teams with bibs and balls at one end.
3. 3Place a small target line to dribble or pass over at the far end.

How to play

1. 1The attacker starts in the centre and must get to the far line.
2. 2The defender starts two yards away and tries to steer play into a side channel.
3. 3A tackle or interception wins the ball.
4. 4If the defender wins it, they counter to a marked line straight away.
5. 5Rotate players after each go.

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

• -Approaching in a straight line
• -Overrunning the ball
• -Giving space back after winning it