SSG with Target Players

Description

A small-sided game where each team scores by successfully finding their target player stationed in an end zone at the opposing end of the pitch. The target player must receive, control, and play the ball back into the field of play within 3 touches. This drill develops the ability to play incisive forward passes, hold-up play by the target player, and off-the-ball movement to create passing lanes to the target.

Setup

Mark a 35x25-yard pitch with 5-yard end zones at each end. Each team has one target player in the opponent end zone and 4 outfield players in the main area. Score by playing the ball into your target player who must control it in the end zone. Target players rotate every 3 minutes.

Coaching Points

• +Target player must constantly move along the end zone line to offer a passing angle
• +Play forward when possible — do not over-circulate possession in midfield
• +Target player receives with back to the field, uses body to shield, and lays off intelligently
• +Supporting runners must time their movement to arrive as the target receives

Progressions

1. 1.Target player can enter the field after receiving, creating a temporary overload
2. 2.Require a wall pass: target must lay off and receive a return pass in the end zone to score
3. 3.Add a condition that the ball must travel through at least 3 players before reaching the target

Equipment

Skills