8v7 Plus 2 with Counter

Setup

The opposing team (goalkeeper, 4, 5, 2, 6, 3, 8 and 10) starts play with the goalkeeper and looks to build out against the press. The playing zone is 50x55 yards in a half field, narrower than the full width of the field. The opposing team attacks 3 small goals on the far side of the zone, with 2 neutrals on the far line. The neutrals always play with the team that has the ball: when the opposing team has it, they help it score in the small goals, and when the focus team wins it, they can help the focus team score. There is no touch limit. The focus team (two 9’s, 10, 11, 8, 6 and 7) tries to win the ball and immediately counter to goal.

Focus Team’s Objective

Force play wide and remain compact. Win the ball and quickly counter to goal.

What Opponent Focuses On

Moving the ball quickly to break the immediate press and score in the small goals.

Key Coaching Points

• Stay compact.
• Force play wide.
• Quick counter to goal.

Possible Variations

Can add a neutral to the middle of the field. Can remove 1 field player from each team.