Wide Overlap Attack

Objective

• -Create and use an overlap in the wide area
• -Deliver into the right area for arriving runners
• -Attack near post, far post and the edge of the box

Setup

1. 1Half pitch with a full goal and a keeper.
2. 2Wide channel marked on each side.
3. 3Two defenders in the box, attackers in three starting lines.

How to play

1. 1Central player passes wide and the full-back overlaps on the outside.
2. 2Delivery goes in and three attackers attack near post, far post and the edge.
3. 3Alternate sides every rep and rotate roles every four reps.

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

• -Passing wide too early so the defender adjusts
• -Crossing behind the runners
• -Everyone attacking the near post