Passing
Y-Shape Combination Passing
Combine in threes to break a line
Combine in threes to break a line. Set up the area, follow the steps and use the coaching points below.
Back to drill libraryAge
Under 5 to Adults
Duration
15 min
Players
6-18
Area / pitch size
30 x 20 yards
Difficulty
Beginner / Intermediate / Advanced
Equipment
Balls, Cones, Mini Goals
Coaching focus
Combine in threes to break a line
Build a full 60-minute session around this drill
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Drill diagram
Starter, pivot and two exits in a 30 x 20 area. The picture shows one side of the Y using the mini-goal option.
- 1.Starter passes into the pivot.
- 2.Pivot sets the ball back first time.
- 3.Starter switches wide to the third player (left side shown).
- 4.Wide player attacks the exit. Follow passes to rotate; swap sides every eight repetitions.
Objective
- -Combine in threes to break a line
- -Time the supporting run
- -Finish the pattern with a pass into a target
Setup
- 1Set a Y of cones: one starter, one pivot, two exits.
- 2Balls at the starting cone.
- 3Mini goals or target players at each exit.
How to play
- 1Starter passes into the pivot who sets it back first time.
- 2Starter switches wide to the third player who attacks the exit.
- 3Everyone follows their pass, swap sides every 8 reps.
Coaching points
- -Pivot checks away before showing for the ball
- -Set-back weighted into the runner's stride
- -Third player times the run to arrive at pace
- -Pass with the correct surface for the angle
Progressions
- +Add a passive defender on the pivot
- +One-touch set and go
Regressions
- -Static receivers, slower tempo
- -Two touches allowed everywhere
Variations
- -Finish with a shot at goal
- -Mirror the pattern on the other side
Common mistakes
- -Pivot receiving flat-footed
- -Set-back too heavy or behind the runner
- -Third player leaving too early
Related Football Drills & Sessions
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