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Small Sided Games (SSG's) are training exercises which are modifications of the regular 11v11 match format. Generally ranging from 3v3 to 9v9, SSG's are favourable as they allow players the opportunity to experience relevant football actions at a greater rate when compared to an 11v11. Coaches can use SSG's to develop specific technical/tactical/physical/mental aspects of the game in a game realistic setting. SSG's are often directional and can support a range of different conditions/rules.
'Dribble or Bounce'
SSG conditioned so that when players receive the ball, they must either play a one touch pass OR dribble into a new zone. Scanning, quick decision making & 1v1 skills will be key in this session.
Playing into Midfield
SSG encouraging build-up play and passes into the midfield unit. Midfielders must make angles behind the opposition midfield in order to receive and move into the attacking zone.
Finding the Striker
SSG focusing on playing passes into the striker. The striker may look to create space to shoot before receiving or pin & spin the defender.
Playing Behind the Defence
SSG encouraging passes behind the defence. Each team must be creative with their attacking movement in order to get in behind the players in the defensive zone.
NCFC 3v3 Shooting
3v3 game with players locked into their zones. Players are encouraged to shoot from distance but may also look to play passes into the lone striker.
Counter-Attacking with 1v1's
After scoring, the goalscorer in the SSG runs into the wide area to complete a 1v1. The other team may counter-attack using their overload while this happens.
Receiving on the Half-Turn
Overlapping Runs in a SSG
SSG where players must drop into the free central channel & look to receive side-on before attacking. Movement, body shape & attacking combinations are all key.
Goals with an overlap in the build-up are worth double. Teams may pass to wide players & overlap them. Wide players can then join in & overload the pitch or use the overlapping player.
Breaking Down vs Breaking Out
In this SSG, the reds attempt to play through yellow & find their target player. If the yellows win the ball, they counter into the opposite goal using their wide players.
2v2 with Target Players
In these 2v2 practices, attackers must use the neutral (target) players effectively & intelligently to create goal scoring opportunities.
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