Break and Support

New Session: Break and Counter Created via @SportSessionPlanner Organisation ◆ Area: 30x20m divided into two equal halves with two small goals positioned in each corner ◆ Players: 3 Reds v 2 Blues in one half, 1v1 in the other, plus 1 Red and 1 Blue on the sideline ready to support ◆ Practice starts with the Reds in possession of the ball ◆ The area, player numbers, and conditions can be adjusted depending on age, level, and success Objective ● The Reds (ATT) aim to complete a pre-agreed number of consecutive passes, before transferring the ball into the opposite half. ● The chosen number of passes is decided secretly by the Reds each round, adding an element of deception and unpredictability for the Blues. ● Once the ball is transferred, two Reds follow their pass and one Blue moves across, creating a 3v2 in the new half. Reds then attack either of the small goals and look to finish quickly. ● If the Blues win possession, they counter immediately into the opposite half and can call for support from one of the sideline players. ⛔ Play restarts when the ball goes dead. ⛔ Make sure to rotate players. Progressions ➠ Time Attack: Set a time limit for counter-attacks (e.g. 6 seconds to score) to increase urgency and realism. ➠ Reduced Support: Remove the sideline players and play naturally with a 3v2 in one half and 1v2 in the other, increasing defensive challenge and space awareness. ➠ Full Flow: Allow all players to join play freely after each transition to replicate real in-game chaos and decision-making. Teaching the 'Why': 1️⃣ Read the Picture Encourage players to recognise when to transfer play, “What tells you the moment to break forward?” and “How can we disguise our switch?” Teach them to link visual cues to decision timing. 2️⃣ Purpose in the Pass Every pass should move the opposition. Ask: “Are we passing to keep the ball or to create the next space?” Help players understand how the pass before the pass breaks pressure. 3️⃣ Change the Rhythm Reinforce tempo awareness: “When do we stay patient, and when do we strike?” Link rhythm changes to transitions, calm in possession, explosive in counter-attack. ➥ How would you adapt this practice to suit your players’ age or level? See less View session via @SportSessionPlanner https://lnk2ssp.com/s/vlUTi/i/IoxO/Break-and-Counter.html Website: https://www.thesportingresource.co.uk/