Back Four Bridge

Objective

• -Help a back four spread and connect
• -Show how midfield players can support from ahead
• -Build confidence in shifting the ball across the line

Setup

1. 1Set up a 30 x 26 yard area with a back four line and three pressing players.
2. 2Place two target players in front of the build-up group.
3. 3Use cones to show the width of the back line and the central passing lanes.

How to play

1. 1The coach starts play with the ball at one defender or the goalkeeper.
2. 2The back four must move the ball side to side before finding a target player ahead.
3. 3Pressers try to shut off the central lane and force a mistake.
4. 4If the target player receives cleanly, the build-up team gets a point.
5. 5Restart with a new ball each time so the rhythm stays high.

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

• -Back line standing too close together
• -Turning back under no pressure
• -Ignoring the far side space