Numbers Up Game

Objective

• -Exploit overloads quickly
• -React when the number balance changes
• -Support the player on the ball

Setup

1. 1Mark a rectangle with a scoring line at each end.
2. 2Split players into three teams: two attack and one defends, or rotate quickly if short on numbers.
3. 3Use bibs to show each team clearly.
4. 4Keep spare balls ready at the side for fast restarts.

How to play

1. 1One team starts as the defenders, with the other two teams combining in possession.
2. 2The attacking teams try to score together, using the extra player or players to create a numbers-up attack.
3. 3If defenders win it, they counter straight away towards either end line.
4. 4After a goal or five minutes, swap the defending team.
5. 5Restart quickly so players keep making instant decisions.

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

• -Forcing the ball into crowded areas
• -No movement off the ball
• -Slow switch from attack to defend