Target Turnover

Objective

• -Protect the ball then find a pass
• -Regain possession quickly
• -Play into target players

Setup

1. 1Mark a normal small-sided pitch with a target player behind each end line.
2. 2Split the players into two teams plus two target players.
3. 3Give the targets bibs and keep them neutral.

How to play

1. 1Teams score by passing to their target player at the far end.
2. 2The target controls the ball and returns it to the same team.
3. 3When possession changes, the new team attacks the other target.
4. 4Play continuous rounds with quick restarts.
5. 5Encourage players to keep good shape when defending and passing.

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

• -Forcing passes into the target
• -Slow reaction after a turnover
• -Targets being static and easy to mark