Small-Sided Game Opponent Behind

Pitch: Play takes place in one half of the pitch from the goal line to the halfway line, the four corners are marked with cones. The full-size goal stands on the goal line, a smaller goal on the halfway line. Roughly in the middle, two flat markers on the touchlines divide the pitch into two halves. The pitch size is adapted to age and number of players, the pitch described is designed for a U14 with 10 outfield players and 2 goalkeepers.

Equipment: 4 cones, 2 flat markers, bibs, balls, 2 goals.

Players: Two teams, each with a goalkeeper, alternatively without goalkeepers on mini goals or dribbling goals. With an odd number of players, one neutral player is nominated who plays only for the team in possession.

• A free game is played with special rules for the goal kick.
• At the goal kick the ball may only be played to a team-mate who is in the opposition half at the moment the ball is played.
• However, the ball must not cross the halfway line before a team-mate has touched it in their own half.
• The receiver must therefore come out of the opposition half and take the ball in their own half.
• The opposing team may only cross the halfway line after the ball has been played.

Note: Drill idea by Eddie Plickat.