Endless Diamond

Objective

• -Use a diamond shape to keep the ball
• -Create angles all over the pitch
• -Move the ball quickly through support

Setup

1. 1Mark a rectangle and place four cone stations in a diamond shape inside it.
2. 2Split into two teams with bibs.
3. 3Ask each team to keep at least one player near each cone station when in possession.
4. 4Start with the ball in the middle from the coach.

How to play

1. 1Play a possession game where teams score by completing a set number of passes through the diamond stations.
2. 2Players should rotate around the stations but keep the shape of the diamond.
3. 3If the ball goes out or is won, the other team starts with a new ball.
4. 4Encourage fast support and clear passing lanes.
5. 5Keep the rules simple and let the shape do the coaching.

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

• -Flat passing lanes
• -Players bunching at one station
• -No movement after the pass