Two-Zone Chase

Objective

• -Chase the ball into the attacking zone quickly
• -Defend space while turning to counter
• -Use simple forward passes on the transition

Setup

1. 1Split a 28 x 18 yard area into two equal zones with cones.
2. 2Put a mini goal at each end.
3. 3Two teams start with one pair in each zone and the rest behind the end lines.
4. 4Use bibs so the teams are easy to see.

How to play

1. 1Play begins in the first zone with a 2v2 or 3v3.
2. 2When the ball is played into the other zone, all players in that zone may join in.
3. 3If possession changes, the new team attacks the opposite goal straight away.
4. 4The coach restarts any dead ball into the less crowded zone.
5. 5Keep rounds short and fast.

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

• -Too many players chasing the ball
• -Slow shift between zones
• -Passing sideways instead of forward