Four Box Possession

Objective

• -Keep possession in connected spaces
• -Recognise when to switch areas
• -Play with patience and speed

Setup

1. 1Split a 30 x 20 yard pitch into four equal boxes using cones.
2. 2Put two teams inside, with players allowed to move through the lines.
3. 3Place a ball with the coach at the side.
4. 4Give bibs to the team in possession and ensure both teams have equal numbers.

How to play

1. 1The team in possession tries to complete five passes before moving the ball into a different box.
2. 2At least one pass must be made in a box before the ball can be carried or passed into the next box.
3. 3The defending team can press across all boxes but must stay inside the marked area.
4. 4If the ball is won, the other team starts again from the box where it was lost.
5. 5Keep the game flowing and praise quick support around the ball.

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

• -Everyone chasing the ball
• -Forcing play into crowded spaces
• -Not supporting the switch