High school · Possession · 20 min
Split, Check, Break the First Line
Train the GK and back four to play out against a high press: split, find the spare man, and break the first line with a pass — not a hoof.
Attack DefendSolid = passDashed = run
- Space
- Defensive third, full width, two mini-goals on the halfway line
- Equipment
- 10 discs · 2 mini-goals · 1 full goal · 6 balls · pinnies
Organization
Build-up 7 (GK + 4 + 2) vs 5 pressers. Start from a goal kick or a back pass to the GK. Build-up scores by playing into a mini-goal on halfway or a run beyond it. Pressers score in the big goal within 8 seconds of a win. 5 × 3-minute rounds.
Whiteboard
Diagram notes
North is the attacking direction of the press. GK on the 6. CBs split to the corners of the 18. Fullbacks high and wide. 6 in front of the D. Two pressers on CBs, one on the 6, two on fullbacks. Arrows: GK to LCB, LCB carry, pass into the 8 beyond the first line.
Coaching points
- Center-backs split to the width of the 18. The 6 is the third man, not a hiding place.
- If the 6 is marked, the free CB carries until a presser leaves a lane.
- First touch is across the body so both sides stay in view.
- The pass that breaks the first line is firm and to the far foot.
Phrases to use
- “Split. Don’t hide.”
- “If the 6 is marked, carry.”
- “See both sides before you touch it.”
- “Break the line, don’t hope.”
Progressions
- Add a sixth presser.
- Build-up must break the line in four passes or restart.
- No talking from the GK for one round — outfield players must scan.
Regressions
- Pressers start 8 yards higher and cannot intercept the first pass.
- Allow a second 6 as a bounce.
- Serve from the coach instead of a goal kick.
Common mistakes
Both CBs stand on the six-yard and the press has one easy jump.
Split to the corners of the 18. Make the press cover 40 yards.
The 6 checks into a crowd and the ball dies.
If you’re marked, spin out or leave it. The spare man is elsewhere.
GK punts at the first red shirt.
The punt is a choice after the first line is set, not a panic on touch 1.