BREAKING LINES TO PLAY INTO THE # 9
Ryan Gottier Executive Director | Phoenixville Area Soccer Club
1. PASSING / RECEIVING- WHEN TO PLAY FORWARD
Area: 40x40 yards Square or Circle Players: 15 Where on the field: Middle Third Objectives: Part 1: WHEN can a player turn to play forward. Technique: Body shape to receive. Timing of checking shoulder. Communication: Give instructions regarding WHEN to“ TURN” vs“ BACK”
Description: Activity: Receiving and Turning Under Pressure. Organization: 10 perimeter players pass to 5 central players in a grid. Phase 1: Receiving and turning. Phase 2: Add 2 – 3 defenders. Objectives: Improve scanning, body orientation, and decision speed in tight spaces. Coaching Points: Maintain sideways-on body shape and scan before receiving. Emphasize clear communication and effective decision-making: choose to shield, pass, or turn based on def. pressure.
Progressions / Variations: Focus on increasing intensity by limiting the number of touches per player, increasing defensive pressure, and implementing strict time constraints for each phase of play.
Coaching Points: Body shape of receiver sideways-on. Receiver checking shoulder prior to ball being played.
2. MODIFIED OVER THE RIVER
Area: Two grids 36 yards wide x 30 yards long with a 36 x 5 yard channel in between Where on the Field? Central channel; Middle to Attacking thirds Players: 15 players Objectives: Use established technique to recognize WHEN to break lines and maintain possession.
Description: Activity: Breaking Lines & Finding the # 9 Organization: Two grids with a central channel. 5v2 possession per grid; 3 defenders in the channel. Objectives: Improve vertical passing accuracy and link-up play with the # 9. Description: Directional rondo requiring three passes before a vertical entry to the # 9. The # 9 must turn or combine. Rotate defenders on turnovers, focusing on body positioning, timing, and pass quality.
Progressions / Variations: Progressions: Adjust grid size, add touch restrictions, or increase central defenders. Adjust the grid sizes to increase technical / tactical demand. Add a defender( 5v3 in grid with 2 remaining in the channel).
Coaching Points: Scan, maintain forward body shape, and time # 9’ s movement. Improve penetration by scanning, utilizing quick combination play, and executing high-tempo passes to break lines and find the # 9.
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