mixed bag

Objectives:

To place field players and goalkeepers in decision-making situations with attacks developed from the flanks.

Organization

• Use half of a full-sized field. Mark out a 6-yard channel each side of field.

• Use cones/flags at the half if you don’t have a portable goal.

• Mark in a centre line.

• The one or two players in each "flank channel" have no allegiance - they play for both teams.

• 3 vs. 2, plus a goalkeeper, in each half.

• When the goalkeeper has the football, the practice is always re-started by goalkeeper throwing to flank players.

• Flank players can pass to one another, overlap, cross the ball or pass the ball into the 3 attackers.

• If on their own, take it and cross it.

• Change the players' positions periodically to give everyone experience in different roles (except goalkeepers).

• Offside rule in each zone should be applied by coach.

Coaching Points

• Goalkeepers must work on good quality throws to wide players, and be encouraged to "switch" play.

• Goalkeepers must communicate their requirements, organize the defence and adjust to changing situations.

• Quality of cross from wing players critical for successful attacking play.

• Three attackers in each half need to communicate and work "off" one another, with particular attention to "near-post" and "far-post" runs.

• The two defenders in each half have to work skilfully because they are outnumbered.

Challenge

• For the "wingers" to deliver quality crosses; for the rest to outmanoeuvre the opposition.