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4-3-3 Playing Out from the Back

Develop confidence and skills in playing out from the back in a 4-3-3 formation.

DribblingU12U13U14U15U16U17U18Seniorschedule20mgroup14 players minimum
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Equipment, Setup & Instructions
Equipment
  • Goals
  • Cones for marking grids
  • 4 Bibs
  • Large cones
  • Footballs (10)
Setup
  1. Area: Half pitch divided into 6 grids (defensive, middle and attacking thirds, each split into two grids)
  2. Goals: One large goal at each end of the half-pitch area – the defending goal behind the goalkeeper and the attacking target goal at the far end
  3. Team Red: 2 red forwards start just inside the halfway line of the area, ready to press forward to create a 4v2 with the defenders
  4. Team Blue: 10 blue outfield players start in their designated grids – 2 centre-halves and 2 full-backs in the two defensive-third grids, 4 midfielders in the two middle-third grids, and 2 forwards in the two attacking-third grids near the opponent's goal
  5. Team Blue GK: 1 yellow goalkeeper positioned on the goal line of the defending goal
  6. Equipment: Cones marking the boundaries of the 6 grids, plus large cones marking the posts of each goal
Instructions
  1. The practice starts with the goalkeeper playing out to the defenders.
  2. Only two forwards from the defending team are allowed into the half to create a 4v2 situation.
  3. CHs try to move into the two outside grids and FBs push high into the far corners.
  4. Defenders must make three successful passes before they can play out.
  5. After successful passes, defenders build an attack on the opponent's goal.
  6. If forwards win the ball, they attempt a counter attack.
Coaching Points
  • Try to play quickly to enable you the chance to play out. CB can slide down the box to help create space.
  • Body position: look to be able to play out on your first touch. Ability to pass the ball over distance.
  • Keeper, try to play quickly and make your decision early if you are going to kick.
  • CHs, try to move the ball quickly; consider how to play if the forwards press you.
  • FBs, try not to pass too early and look to switch the play.
  • Maintain composure, try to take your time on the ball, look up, and play to space.
Variations
Make it harder:
1. Allow an additional forward to press, creating a 4v3 situation.
2. Reduce the space of the grids, requiring quicker decision-making.
3. Limit the defenders to two touches per player.
Make it easier:
1. Permit only one forward to press, creating a 4v1 situation.
2. Increase the space of the grids to allow more time on the ball.
3. Allow defenders unlimited touches.
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