Regain and Go

Objective

• -React quickly when possession changes
• -Turn defence into attack at pace
• -Create support around the ball

Setup

1. 1Set up a 30 x 20 yard pitch with one mini goal at each end.
2. 2Split the group into two equal teams with bibs for one side.
3. 3Start each team near their own half, ready for a quick restart.
4. 4Keep spare balls beside the coach to maintain flow.

How to play

1. 1The coach starts each play with a pass into the pitch.
2. 2Teams play freely and try to score in the opposite mini goal.
3. 3As soon as possession changes, the new team must attack immediately.
4. 4If the ball leaves the pitch, the coach feeds a new ball to the team that lost it last.
5. 5Keep the game moving with short bursts and quick restarts.

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

• -Walking after a turnover
• -Passing backwards too early
• -Crowding the ball carrier