Moving Gates Match

Objective

• -Dribble into changing spaces
• -Protect the ball in traffic
• -Choose the right moment to attack

Setup

1. 1Create four moving gates with two cones each, one on each side of the pitch.
2. 2Split into two teams with bibs.
3. 3Players start in the middle, with the coach positioned on the outside.
4. 4The coach or helpers can move one gate at a time during the game.

How to play

1. 1Teams score by dribbling the ball under control through any open gate.
2. 2After a score, the coach moves one gate to a new spot straight away.
3. 3Players must quickly look for the new open route before attacking again.
4. 4If the ball goes out, restart with a new ball from the side.
5. 5Keep the game lively and encourage players to adapt.

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

• -Fixating on one gate
• -Running with the ball out of control
• -Not reacting when the layout changes