Shape Shuttle

Objective

• -Keep a clear team shape when moving as a unit
• -Shift across the pitch together
• -Create simple passing angles by staying connected

Setup

1. 1Set out a 25 x 20 yard area with cones.
2. 2Split players into two teams in bibs, with balls at one end.
3. 3Place two cone gates on each side line and one in the middle.

How to play

1. 1One team starts in a simple shape and moves the ball between players.
2. 2On the coach's call, the whole team shifts to the next gate as a unit.
3. 3The ball must be kept moving while players stay connected and spread out.
4. 4After a set time, swap the team in possession and repeat.
5. 5Encourage players to talk and adjust their positions early.

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 bunching around the ball
• -Lines getting too flat or too stretched
• -Moving late after the ball has already gone