Shape Rescue

Objective

• -Train players to recover shape after losing the ball
• -Link quick reaction with team organisation
• -Develop awareness of space around the ball

Setup

1. 1Set up a 38 x 26 yard pitch with mini goals at each end.
2. 2Split players into two equal teams in bibs.
3. 3Keep spare balls by the side for quick restarts.

How to play

1. 1Play a free small-sided game to normal goals.
2. 2As soon as possession is lost, the nearest players press while the rest recover into shape.
3. 3The coach can add a point for a clean recovery into the right shape before the next attack.
4. 4Restart quickly if the ball goes out or a goal is scored.
5. 5Encourage constant talk and quick reactions.

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

• -Players staying high after losing it
• -Chasing without cover
• -Big holes between players