Double End Dash

Objective

• -Attack one end then switch to defend the other
• -Build quick recovery runs
• -Keep intensity high throughout the game

Setup

1. 1Mark out a 32 x 22 yard pitch with a mini goal at each end.
2. 2Split players into two teams with bibs for one side.
3. 3Place a line of cones just outside each end line to show the recovery zone.
4. 4Keep spare balls with the coach for continuous play.

How to play

1. 1Play a normal game to the two mini goals.
2. 2When a goal is scored, the scoring team must sprint back into the recovery zone before play restarts.
3. 3The team that conceded gets the next attack from the coach.
4. 4If the ball goes out, the coach restarts immediately to keep the tempo up.
5. 5Encourage everyone to work both ways.

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

• -Stopping after scoring
• -Slow jog back to shape
• -Dropping concentration on restarts