Zone Shift

Objective

• -Shift the ball into a new area after regaining
• -Move defenders with the ball
• -Create a quick attacking lane

Setup

1. 1Split a 32 x 20 yard pitch into three zones with cones.
2. 2Place a neutral player in the middle zone.
3. 3Split the two teams so each has players in every zone.
4. 4Use bibs to show the team in possession.

How to play

1. 1Teams keep possession and try to progress from one end zone to the other.
2. 2When the ball is won, the new team must find the middle zone before attacking.
3. 3The neutral player can play for the team in possession only.
4. 4If the ball goes out, restart in the zone where it left the pitch.
5. 5Rotate the neutral player and outside positions often.

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

• -Crowding one zone
• -Forcing long passes
• -Slow support after regain