PURPOSE OF SESSION:
Focus on the first touch of players, both in terms of being able to control the ball and also the direction of this first touch. Central to the idea is recognising where the space is to play first touch into.
INITIAL SET-UP:
• Half the group (red) are spread around the outside of the grid with a ball each. These act as servers. • The other half (black) start at the centre of the grid. • Swap roles every 90 seconds. • Place random gates around the inside of the grid. Vary the sizes of these gates to change the challenge for the players.
INSTRUCTIONS:
• Blacks receive a pass and look to take their first touch through a gate then play to a free server on the outside.
PROGRESSIONS:
1. Players play their first touch through a gate, and then pass through a gate to an outside server. 2. Players receive aerially, and look to use an appropriate surface (chest, thigh, laces) to play through a gate. At times this may require two touches.
CHALLENGES / QUESTIONS FOR PLAYERS:
• Can you position your body to allow you to play through a gate with one touch? • After this first touch, can you make sure your second touch is ‘playable’? • Can servers change their starting position to allow pass out through a gate? • To give players more ownership of the exercise by frequently, ask them to change the positions of the grids.
SCORING:
Each successful first touch is worth a point. How many points can you score in 90 seconds?
CAUTION:
If you ask the players to move the gate positions, ensure they do not try to be too clever and position the gates in positions that are too difficult.
COACHING POINTS:
1. Your first touch should allow you to pass or shoot with your second touch.
2. Direct your first touch into the appropriate space.
3. Choose the correct surface with which to control the ball.