Balance the Squares

Set Up:

Play begins with a 3v1 in one square and 1v1’s in the other three squares. After five passes, the attackers change the ball into an adjacent square (to Player 1 in the diagram) and then rotate two players into that square (Players 2 and 3), re-forming the 3v1. As the 3v1 re-forms, attackers rotate into the empty squares to re-form the 1v1’s (Players 4 and 5). The defenders must stay inside of their squares until they win the ball, then all four can move into one square to play 4v3. When the attackers re-gain possession, the defenders return to their squares.

Coaching Points:

1.  Timing the Runs - Hold the run until the attackers are ready to change the ball over.​

2.  Speed of Play - Play one and two touch soccer and force the defenders to chase.

3.  Decision Making – Anticipate play and begin the rotations in advance of the pass.

Progressions/Regressions:

Progression 1 - Allow passes into all three squares.

Regression 1 - Allow attackers to dribble into an adjacent zone after five passes.

Players Required: 
10

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