Underload Clock Face Touches

Objective

• -Manipulate the ball into every direction on the clock face
• -Improve balance and body shape while moving the ball
• -Prepare players for turning away from pressure

Setup

1. 1A ring of twelve cones set out like a clock face in a 12 x 12 yards area.
2. 2Add one extra defender to the working area and mark their start position with a flat cone.
3. 3One ball per player inside the ring.

How to play

1. 1Coach calls a clock number and players move the ball to that cone with a named skill.
2. 2Players return to the middle before the next call.
3. 3Alternate between sole, inside and outside of the foot.
4. 4The attacking group starts a player short, so every entry pass has to be sharp.
5. 5Defenders score a point for every clean turnover; attackers need three clean end actions to win the round.

Progressions

• +Add a second extra defender
• +Raise the demand once the group is consistently successful

Regressions

• -Even the numbers up again
• -Simplify the area or the service until success returns

Variations

• -Attackers get one 'free pass' per round they can call
• -Run the practice on the opposite side of the pitch

Common mistakes

• -Turning into a crowded part of the ring
• -Standing over the ball between calls
• -Trying to beat two players instead of releasing early