A Full Training Session on a Quarter of a Pitch
For many coaches—especially those working with youth teams—training on just a quarter of a pitch is a daily reality. But to what extent can you still train for a ‘big-pitch’ game in such a confined space? In this short article, we offer a suggestion on how to make the most of that relatively small patch of grass.
Game Explanation
In Diagram 1, the red player starts the game by passing the ball to the player in the number 7 or 11 position. The blue defenders in the shaded zones start about ten meters away. A 1v1 duel takes place within the zone, followed by a cross. In Diagram 2, the cross follows an overlapping run (going around the outside), though the red player in the 11 position may also choose to deliver an inswinging ball immediately. As soon as the player in the 11 position receives the ball and delivers the cross, the red player in the 7 position can make a run in front of the goal (and vice versa). If the goalkeeper catches the ball (Diagram 3) or the blue team wins possession, the blue team can score in one of the small goals.
Diagram 1
Diagram 2
Diagram 3
Organization
- 1 full-size goal.
- 2 small goals.
- 12 cones to mark out the pitch.
Content
- 6v6 + goalkeeper.
- 1v1 duels take place in the shaded areas, followed by a cross.
- Red can score in the goal defended by the goalkeeper.
- Blue can score in either of the two small goals, working in conjunction with the goalkeeper.
Coaching remarks
Coaches can focus this drill on wide play, 1v1 duels, positioning in front of the goal, and the transition phase following a loss of possession. In the diagram, the red player who plays the initial pass remains behind the pitch area for the time being. You could choose to include him as a sort of link player, allowing player 11 to play the ball back, after which player 7 can be played on the other side.