U11–U13 · Possession · 18 min
Split, Check, Break One Line
Get U12s comfortable playing out: CBs split, 6 checks, and the first line of the press is broken with a pass — not a hoof from panic.
Attack DefendSolid = passDashed = run
- Space
- Defensive third, two mini-goals on the halfway line
- Equipment
- 8 cones · 2 mini-goals · 1 full goal · 6 balls · pinnies
Organization
Build-up 6 (GK + 4 + 6) vs 4 pressers. Start from a goal kick or a back pass. Build-up scores into a mini-goal on halfway. Pressers score in the big goal within 8 seconds of a win. 5 × 3-minute rounds.
Whiteboard
Diagram notes
South goal. GK on the 6. CBs split. Fullbacks high and wide. 6 in front of the D. Four pressers. Arrows: GK to LCB, LCB into the 6, 6 into a mini-goal on halfway.
Coaching points
- CBs split to the corners of the 18. Don’t hide on the six-yard.
- The 6 checks into a lane, not into a crowd. If marked, spin out.
- GK’s first look is the spare CB. The punt is a choice, not touch one.
- The pass that breaks the first line is firm and to the far foot.
Phrases to use
- “Split. Don’t hide.”
- “Check into a lane.”
- “See the spare man.”
- “Break the line, don’t hope.”
Progressions
- Add a fifth presser.
- Must break the line in four passes.
- No talking from the GK for one round.
Regressions
- Pressers cannot intercept the first pass.
- Allow a second 6 as a bounce.
- Coach serves instead of a goal kick.
Common mistakes
Both CBs stand next to the keeper and one presser covers both.
Split until the press has to cover 40 yards.
The 6 checks into two markers and the ball dies.
If you’re marked, leave it. The spare man is a CB or a fullback.
GK punts at the first red shirt.
The first look is a teammate. The punt is after the picture is dead.