Numbers Up Links

Objective

• -Use overloads to keep the ball
• -Find the spare player
• -Play forward when possible

Setup

1. 1Create a rectangular area and divide players into a team in possession plus two defenders.
2. 2Use bibs for the team in possession and a different colour for defenders.
3. 3Keep spare balls with the coach.

How to play

1. 1The possession team tries to make as many passes as possible.
2. 2The two defenders work to win the ball and can press freely inside the area.
3. 3If the defenders win it, they play out for a point or swap roles.
4. 4Add a time limit for each round.
5. 5Change the overload from 5v2 to 6v3 if needed.

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

• -Crowding one side
• -Forcing risky passes
• -Standing still after a pass