Pivot Point

Objective

• -Help players use a pivot player in team shape
• -Improve support behind and beyond the ball
• -Create simple build-up patterns

Setup

1. 1Set a 26 x 20 yard area with cones.
2. 2Place one marker in the middle for a pivot player to use.
3. 3Split players into two teams in bibs with a ball.

How to play

1. 1The team in possession must find the pivot player before going forward.
2. 2The pivot can play one or two touches to keep the move flowing.
3. 3Other players must stay spread to give short and long options.
4. 4If the defending team wins it, they change roles straight away.
5. 5Rotate the pivot role often so everyone understands the job.

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

• -Pivot player hidden behind markers
• -Everyone crowding the centre
• -Forcing a forward pass too soon