End Zone Relays

Objective

• -Pass quickly in transition
• -Support forward movement
• -Find space to score

Setup

1. 1Mark out a pitch with an end zone at each end.
2. 2Split players into two teams and place mini goals or scoring zones inside the end zones.
3. 3Start each team in their own half.

How to play

1. 1Teams score by passing a ball into a teammate in the end zone.
2. 2The receiver must control the ball in the zone for a point.
3. 3If the ball is intercepted, play changes direction straight away.
4. 4Restart quickly from the coach whenever the ball goes out.
5. 5Encourage forward passing when space opens up.

Progressions

• +Two-Touch Limit: drop to one touch in the central area
• +Weak Foot Only: add a defender to raise the pressure
• +Tempo Clock: cut the clock to four seconds
• +Add a competitive scoreline for the last round

Regressions

• -Two-Touch Limit: allow three touches while the picture is learned
• -Weak Foot Only: static, unopposed reps before adding movement
• -Tempo Clock: extend the clock to ten seconds
• -Simplify the area or the service until success returns

Variations

• -Two-Touch Limit — Players are limited to two touches — one to control, one to release.
• -Weak Foot Only — Every touch, pass and finish must be with the weaker foot.
• -Tempo Clock — The ball must reach the end action inside six seconds or the rep restarts.
• -Scan and Cue — The coach shows a colour or number and the receiver must call it before their first touch.
• -Shadow Pressure — A shadow defender applies half pressure and can win the ball only after the first touch.
• -Score Challenge — Run it as a timed competition — pairs or teams count successful reps and compare scores.
• -1-to-1 Session — Run as an individual session: coach serves, one player works through the reps with rest built in.
• -Flip the practice to the opposite side of the pitch

Common mistakes

• -Hitting hopeful long balls
• -Players not moving after the pass
• -Slow reaction in transition