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Possession Functions are training exercises which often focus on elements of in-possession play, however may also encourage the development of out-of-possession and transition traits. Generally, some iteration of ball retention principles will be relevant to create flow. Possession Functions can be implemented with a varied number of players while tempo and intensity within these sessions is often high.
Playing Around vs Playing Through
This 3 team possession creates opportunities to play around and/or through the defending team. Players must show intelligent movement and an awareness of their progression options.
Finding the CF's Feet
This possession function encourages switching play and penetrating passes into the attacking zone. CF's must make intelligent movement & be comfortable holding up play.
Playing Behind the Defence
This possession function encourages passes behind the defensive unit. Players must time their movement well in order to exploit the space behind the defence.
Transitional Possession
This possession function encourages transitions on both sides of the ball. T2A: Pass quickly to targets. T2D: Collapse around the ball at pace.
Breaking Lines - Through vs Around
Two points for playing through, one point for playing around using the wide boxes. When the middle team win the ball, they break out onto the larger pitch in a 3v3.
Building Up Centrally - 3v3+3
Positional possession transfer focusing on progressing play through the middle of the pitch using 3CM's, 2CB's & 1CF. Developing combination play & movement to receive.
Playing Between The Lines
The yellow team build-up and look to find the top two players. If the reds win the ball, they can play forward and transition into a 2v2 towards the mini-goals.
5v3 Build-Up into 3v2 Attack
Possession team plays into 'attackers' after a predetermined number of passes. One player from the build-up zone joins in to create a 3v2.
Defend the Box
3v3+3 Zonal Possession
Reds pass into the receiver in the box before scoring into the mini-goals. If the yellow team keep a clean sheet, they defend for one minute. If they concede, they defend for an extra minute.
In this positional possession, players on the in-possession team must occupy each vertical & horizontal channel. The neutral player is free to move anywhere & should pick up helpful positions.
Overloading Midfield (3v3+4)
Creating a box midfield? This simple possession function encourages movement to overload central areas. Rule: Possession team can drop 1 outside player into the middle of the square.
Breaking Down vs Breaking Out
The red team attempts to break down the yellows by playing a pass into the middle grid. If the yellows win the ball, they may transition towards the mini-goals, using the target player as a bounce pass.
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