Numerical Advantage in the Octagon

Pitch: Mark out an octagon with 8 cones inside an area of 30 x 30 metres. On two opposite sides there are 2 mini goals each.

Equipment: 8 cones, 4 mini goals, bibs in three colours, balls.

Players: Two teams plus 5 neutral players in a separate bib colour. The two teams and one of the neutral players stand in the playing area, the remaining 4 neutral players on the four short outer sides of the octagon.

• The two teams play on the goals in the playing area.
• The neutral players always act for the team in possession. With four outfield players per team this creates a 9 vs 4 situation going forward.
• The neutral outside players may only play first time.
• Goals may only be scored after a first-time pass from an outside player.
• If more players are available, the teams can be increased, with fewer players the neutral central player can be left out at first.

Variations:

• Allow only first-time finishes.
• Allow finishes only after a pass from a neutral player.
• Introduce a touch limit.
• Set a minimum number of passes before the finish.
• Release all goals for finishing in order to open up the game and create more danger in front of goal.

Note: Drill idea by Eddie Plickat.