As we mentioned in last week’s Coaches Corner, a major focus of the NSCAA Premier Diploma is systems of play. Hopefully you’ve had a chance to try out the Attacking 4-4-2 drills we reviewed last week. Here are a few more drills you can use to build on those exercises. Coaches should be sure to emphasize the importance of keeping proper shape, good timing, and crisp passing.
Drill #1
Organization
Space – 70 yds long x 75 yds wide
Two forwards and four midfielders with opposing goalkeeper.
Zone 30 yds from goal line – players not allowed to cross zone line
Coach has a supply of balls 70 yds from goal
Assign three defenders to mark midfielders #4, 7, and 11: If defenders win ball, they can counterattack and score into small goals.
Description
The four attacking midfielders keep ball until they can find passing windows to forwards
between defenders 4, 7, and 11.
Purpose of Exercise
• Teach forwards to time checks based on visual cues of when attacking midfielders have
passing windows
• Teach midfielders when to penetrate, proper support angles, and proper pace & spin on entry
passes
• Teach forwards to combine and score
Drill #2
Organization
Same as previous, introducing two defensive outside backs.
Description of Exercise
Same as before, with one attacking midfielder allowed to enter final third in two situations:
- Part of a 3-man combination (shown)
- Penetrate on the dribble
Purpose of Exercise
• Teach midfield players where and when to make runs into the final third
• Teach forwards to rebound ball to midfielders to create scoring opportunities
• Teach forwards to play against the back line
Drill #3
Organization
Remove zonal restriction from game.
Description of Exercise
Six attackers vs. eight defenders
Attackers combine with forwards and each other.
Defenders counter to small goals.
Purpose of Exercise
Coordinate movements of midfi elders and forwards in a 4-4-2 phase of play exercise.