Blind Side Break

Objective

• -Press from hidden angles
• -Cut off passing lanes
• -Turn pressure into a turnover

Setup

1. 1Create a rectangle with two small target zones on the outside.
2. 2Split players into attackers and defenders using bibs.
3. 3Place the attackers in the middle with one ball.
4. 4Put defenders just outside the area ready to step in.

How to play

1. 1The ball starts with the attackers in the middle.
2. 2On the coach's call, two defenders enter and press from different angles.
3. 3The attackers try to play out to either target zone.
4. 4If the defenders win it, they keep it for a short count or score in the target zone.
5. 5Rotate players quickly so everyone works both roles.

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

• -Running in from a straight line
• -Leaving the inside pass open
• -Pressing too late after the trigger