Transition Build-Up Shape

Objective

• -Build from the keeper through the thirds
• -Create angles that beat the first line of press
• -Recognise when to go long instead

Setup

1. 1A defensive third with a goal, a back line and midfield support in a 50 x 42 yards area.
2. 2Mark a second target area at the opposite end so the practice can flip direction instantly.
3. 3Balls in the goal, two sets of bibs, target gates on halfway.

How to play

1. 1The keeper starts every rep and the back line splits wide.
2. 2The team plays through the press and dribbles through a halfway gate to score.
3. 3If the press wins it, they attack the goal immediately.
4. 4Coach serves a loose ball into the middle and both teams react to win it.
5. 5On every turnover the winning team has six seconds to attack the opposite target.

Progressions

• +Cut the counter window to four seconds
• +Raise the demand once the group is consistently successful

Regressions

• -Freeze the play for two seconds after each turnover to reset shape
• -Simplify the area or the service until success returns

Variations

• -Coach can serve a second ball to force an instant re-transition
• -Run the practice on the opposite side of the pitch

Common mistakes

• -Playing out for the sake of it
• -Full backs too narrow and deep
• -Stopping to appeal instead of reacting to the turnover