Ses s ion 25

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The gladiator game

Session Aim
Contenders run the football gauntlet in the final third.

Set up:
Organisation
The number of players is 9 (consisting of 1 goalkeeper, 4 defenders (in set positions) and 4 attackers). The game is around the penalty area (see diagram). The game duration should be 25 minutes, giving all players an opportunity. Ensure all players have a chance of role reversal.

Key coaching points:

Equipment needed:
l Cones. l Bibs. l Goal. l Balls. Attackers run with ball with l the front foot (laces) l Be clever in a 1 v 1 position l Hit the target l Look at goalkeeper's position

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Ses s ion 25
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Ball direction Player direction Player and ball direction

Method/Process
On the coach's command the 2 attackers race against each other starting by going through the bottom cones. They must play against the 4 waiting defenders ('gladiators' - who must stay in box until attackers enter penalty area), who will try and impede their forward attack and stop them, advancing to the finish. The winner is the player who finishes first with a shot on goal. If the defenders win the ball, can they try and find the coach with a pass.

Key coaching points:

Attackers run with ball with l the front foot (laces) l Be clever in a 1 v 1 position l Hit the target l Look at goalkeeper's position

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Ses s ion 25
Page 3 of 4
Ball direction Player direction Player and ball direction

Advance to next stage

Ask the contenders to then join forces in a 2 v 4 situation (see diagram).

Key coaching points:

Attackers run with ball with l the front foot (laces) l Be clever in a 1 v 1 position l Hit the target l Look at goalkeeper's position

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Ses s ion 25
Page 4 of 4
Ball direction Player direction Player and ball direction

Advance to next stage

If the 2 v 4 situation becomes difficult, ask a 3rd supporting player to join in.

Key coaching points:

Attackers run with ball with l the front foot (laces) l Be clever in a 1 v 1 position l Hit the target l Look at goalkeeper's position

Feedback Did you find this session useful? Let us know how it could be improved.

Need equipment? Visit our online shop and order today.