🔧 Set-up: Mark a 40x20-yard central zone Position 3 midfielders and 2 attackers Place 2 defenders on the defensive line and 1 defender inside the central zone ⚽ Activity: Midfielders combine with short passes inside the central zone while evading pressure from the central defender Attackers time their runs to find space behind the defensive line Midfielders attempt to play through balls into the attacking third Attackers aim to control and finish, while defenders attempt to intercept passes Rotate roles every 5 minutes so players experience both attacking and defending roles Gradually reduce time allowed for combinations to simulate match pressure Reset play after each attacking attempt ✅ Coaching Points: Prioritise sharp, quick passing to maintain attacking rhythm Encourage attackers to time and angle their runs to exploit gaps Focus on weight and direction of through passes for effective release Teach players to recognise cues for when to release the ball Defenders should communicate to hold a compact, disciplined line ➕ Progressions: Add a defensive midfielder in the central zone to increase pressure Introduce passing restrictions (e.g. mandatory one-touch) to challenge combinations
