Playing Out From The Back

Rotation Third Line Break

Break the opposition line with a forward pass

Playing Out From The Back
Passing
Team Shape

Break the opposition line with a forward pass. Set up the area, follow the steps and use the coaching points below.

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Playing Out From The Back
Passing
Team Shape
Skill Practice
Intermediate
Advanced
Full Squad
Minimal Equipment
Youth Friendly
Adult Suitable
Rotation

Age

Under 11 to Adults

Duration

20 min

Players

8-18

Area / pitch size

40 x 30 yards

Difficulty

Intermediate / Advanced

Equipment

Balls, Cones, Bibs

Coaching focus

Break the opposition line with a forward pass

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Objective

  • -Break the opposition line with a forward pass
  • -Coach the receiving position between the lines
  • -Progress the ball with control, not hope

Setup

  1. 1Three horizontal zones with a defensive line between each in a 40 x 30 yards area.
  2. 2Number every station so players know exactly where they travel to next.
  3. 3Balls in the back zone, two sets of bibs.

How to play

  1. 1The back zone must beat the first line with a pass into the middle zone.
  2. 2The middle player turns and finds the front zone.
  3. 3A completed three-zone sequence scores a point.
  4. 4Play starts at station one and the ball works round the numbers in order.
  5. 5Every player must complete each role once before the round is scored.

Coaching points

  • -Pass to the far foot to help the turn
  • -Receive on the half turn between the lines
  • -Bounce back and switch if the line is closed
  • -Follow your pass — the movement is part of the practice

Progressions

  • +Reverse the rotation direction on the coach's call
  • +Raise the demand once the group is consistently successful

Regressions

  • -Hold roles for a full round before rotating
  • -Simplify the area or the service until success returns

Variations

  • -Rotate only the two hardest roles to give them extra reps
  • -Run the practice on the opposite side of the pitch

Common mistakes

  • -Forcing the pass into a covered player
  • -Middle players hiding behind opponents
  • -Staying in a favourite role and avoiding the harder one

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