Line Breaker

Objective

• -Use free kicks to break a defensive line
• -Find a disguised pass into space
• -Support the next action after the break

Setup

1. 1Set three lanes with cones from the free kick area to goal.
2. 2Place one taker, one receiver and one runner in each lane.
3. 3Use bibs to split attackers and passive defenders.
4. 4Keep spare balls by the coach at the start point.

How to play

1. 1The taker starts the move with a free kick on the ground.
2. 2The first receiver checks off and then spins into a lane.
3. 3The runner supports for a second pass or a shot.
4. 4Defenders try to intercept without diving in.
5. 5Rotate lanes and roles after each attack.

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

• -Predictable passing
• -Flat movement
• -Leaving no support behind the play