Target Link Play

Objective

• -Play through a target player
• -Link passes into attack
• -Create and use central support

Setup

1. 1Mark a rectangle with a mini goal at each end.
2. 2Place one target player in a small cone box near each end line.
3. 3Split the rest into two teams with bibs.
4. 4Targets play for the team in possession and stay in their boxes.

How to play

1. 1Teams score by finding the target player, who then sets the ball back for a shot or pass into a scoring move.
2. 2Targets may take one touch if needed, but must stay in their box.
3. 3When possession changes, the other target becomes available straight away.
4. 4Restart from the coach or the end line after goals and outs.
5. 5Rotate target players every few minutes so everyone gets a turn.

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

• -Playing to feet without angle
• -Target player drifting out of the box
• -Forcing the final pass too soon