Lane Weave

Objective

• -Show how shape helps players find space in lanes
• -Link movement with support runs
• -Build awareness of space either side of the ball

Setup

1. 1Set out three long lanes with cones in a 30 x 18 yard area.
2. 2Split players into two teams, with one player in each lane to start.
3. 3Give each team a ball and bibs.

How to play

1. 1Players work the ball through their lanes with short passes and movement.
2. 2After each pass, the passer must move into a different lane to keep the shape changing.
3. 3A point is scored when the ball reaches the far end with control.
4. 4The coach pauses to show good spacing and then restarts quickly.
5. 5Keep the tempo steady and encourage simple 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

• -Three players in one lane
• -Static passing with no movement
• -Forcing the ball forward too early