Shape to Score

Objective

• -Link team shape with attack and finish
• -Show how players arrive in scoring areas together
• -Improve support around the box

Setup

1. 1Set up a 40 x 30 yard area with mini goals or a full-size goal if available.
2. 2Split players into two teams in bibs.
3. 3Mark a build-up zone, a support zone and a finish zone with cones.

How to play

1. 1The attacking team must build through the first zone, then support in the next zone before shooting.
2. 2One player can enter the finish zone at a time, with others arriving in support.
3. 3After each attack, collect the ball and go again from the coach or goalkeeper.
4. 4The defending team wins possession and can counter if they get it.
5. 5Change the starting point to test different team shapes.

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

• -Early runs with no patience
• -Too many players crowding the finish zone
• -No support behind the attack