Angle And Break

Objective

• -Create better passing angles from the back
• -Break pressure with a positive forward action
• -Finish moves after a clean exit

Setup

1. 1Use a 36 x 24 yard area with a full-size goal at one end and a starting zone at the other.
2. 2Set up a goalkeeper, two defenders and two midfield supports for the team in possession.
3. 3Place three pressers in front and a coach with spare balls on the side.

How to play

1. 1Play begins with the goalkeeper or a defender in the start zone.
2. 2The team must move the ball out from the back and then finish in the full-size goal within a set number of passes.
3. 3The press tries to stop the ball entering midfield cleanly.
4. 4If the ball is won, the press can score quickly in the opposite direction.
5. 5Restart from the goalkeeper after every finish or turnover.

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 straight lines
• -Touching the ball into trouble
• -Going long when a short pass is on