Attacking game · 20 seconds
Direct 2v1s
A fast 2 v 1 attacking game, from SoccerDrive. Two small goals at one end, two lines of attackers in the near corners, and the defending team behind the goals with the balls. The defending team starts it, and the same player does both jobs: the one at the front of their line passes the ball across to an attacker and then charges straight out after it, so it is a live 2 v 1 the moment the pass is struck. The first attacker drives at the defender to commit them, and then it is a decision: release the free team-mate, or fake the pass and take the defender on. Attack the two small goals and finish quickly, first time if it is open, before the defender recovers. Win it as the defender and you score too, by dribbling out over the opposite near line. Ball out ends the rep, the next player from each line steps on, and the teams swap roles after ten balls. 12 to 16 players, two lines plus a defending team, in a channel about 20 by 15 yards with two small goals at one end.
Instructions
- The defending team starts with the ball and passes across to an attacker to begin. First player from each line steps out: a live 2v1
- The two attackers combine. The first attacker commits the defender, then releases the free team-mate
- Attack the two small goals and finish quickly, first time if it is open, before the defender recovers
- Win it as the defender and you score by dribbling out over the opposite (near) line. Ball out ends it; next group on. Swap roles after ten balls
- First attacker: force the defender to commit to the ball before you pass it off
- Defender: curve your run to the ball to force the play one way, do not go straight at it
- Defender: pin an attacker on the sideline to turn the 2v1 into a 1v1
- Second attacker: stay a pass away and give an angle, do not run flat alongside
- Finish first time if the goal is open, do not take an extra touch and let the defender recover
Variation
- Progress to 2v2, then 3v2. Put a few seconds on the attack so they go direct and quick. The defender scores a point for winning it and dribbling out over the far line, to reward real defending.
Building lineups in seconds
Set your team sheet, plan your substitutions, and share it with the parents before you leave the car park.
