Channel Chain

Objective

• -Use team shape to attack wide areas
• -Link wide players, central support and box runners
• -Create simple crossing and finishing patterns

Setup

1. 1Set up a 40 x 25 yard pitch with a wide channel on each side.
2. 2Place mini goals or a finish zone in the far end.
3. 3Split players into two teams in bibs, with balls at the start.

How to play

1. 1The ball starts centrally and must be moved into a wide channel.
2. 2A wide player then combines with central support before crossing or passing inside.
3. 3The other players time runs into the box area to finish the move.
4. 4After each attack, collect the ball and restart from the other team.
5. 5Rotate the wide and central roles.

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

• -Crowding the crossing zone
• -Crossing too early
• -No one attacking the finish