Play forward or keep it · Change the challenge
The attackers recognize a forward opportunity and retain the ball when that route is closed.
Two attackers start at the near end against D halfway up the grid. The far end is the forward target; the attackers may pass sideways or backward to reopen it.
A/B/C = attackers · D = defender · S = server · N = neutral · white dot = ball. Leave clear space between stations. Schematic, not to scale.- Players per station
- 3–5; use the planner for a whole group
- Space
- 12 × 16 yards per station; leave 3 yards between stations
- Equipment
- 2 balls per station (one spare) · 4 flat cones per station · Optional bibs; use agreed team/role names if unavailable
Set up, then show one repetition
Two attackers start at the near end against D halfway up the grid. The far end is the forward target; the attackers may pass sideways or backward to reopen it. Mark four corners. Keep spare balls outside the near sideline.
- Start
- A’s first touch releases D. Attackers may move anywhere inside the grid.
- Score
- Attackers score by dribbling across the far end or receiving under control just beyond it. D counters across the near end after a clean regain.
- Reset & rotate
- After a point or ball out, restart at the near end and rotate D. A fourth player alternates in D’s role each attempt and joins the full rotation.
U9 starting lens: Choose pressure by readiness, then watch: The attackers recognize a forward opportunity and retain the ball when that route is closed.
Rounds that fit 10 minutes
- 1:00 · Show and try
A carries when D protects B; A passes when D closes the ball. Then show a backward pass that creates a new forward route.
- 1:53 · Play 1
Try the entry version and watch the main behavior.
- 0:20 · Rotate, drink, reset
Rotate roles as described. Take water when needed; shorten play instead of rushing the break.
- 1:53 · Play 2
Begin with the easier version. Use one harder change in the next round if most attempts reach a meaningful decision; otherwise repeat the easier version. D walks and blocks one route without tackling; start wider. Progress only when useful: D begins closer and may change which attacker is pressured. Keep the backward option available.
- 0:20 · Rotate, drink, reset
Rotate roles as described. Take water when needed; shorten play instead of rushing the break.
- 1:52 · Play 3
Begin with the easier version. Use one harder change in the next round if most attempts reach a meaningful decision; otherwise repeat the easier version. D walks and blocks one route without tackling; start wider. Progress only when useful: D begins closer and may change which attacker is pressured. Keep the backward option available.
- 0:20 · Rotate, drink, reset
Rotate roles as described. Take water when needed; shorten play instead of rushing the break.
- 1:52 · Play 4
Begin with the easier version. Use one harder change in the next round if most attempts reach a meaningful decision; otherwise repeat the easier version. D walks and blocks one route without tackling; start wider. Progress only when useful: D begins closer and may change which attacker is pressured. Keep the backward option available.
- 0:30 · Notice and move on
Invite one example or gesture, collect balls safely, and move to the next activity.
If it breaks down
- Both attackers rush straight ahead: demonstrate a supporting angle behind the ball, then let them choose again.
- Players cannot explain the objective: show one repetition with their roles, then remove one extra condition.
Make it easier
D walks and blocks one route without tackling; start wider.
Add a stretch
D begins closer and may change which attacker is pressured. Keep the backward option available.
Safety & involvement
Check the surface and clearance around the grid. No pushing, holding, slide tackles, or challenges from behind. Begin with no-contact route blocking; allow clean ball-winning pressure only when players can control the approach. Stop play before retrieving a ball from another station.
Every player has a named role. Rotate through all roles, keep explanations between rounds, and offer a quieter demonstration or gesture response. Water and individual breaks are available whenever needed.
Learn the activity: demonstration, decision pictures & observation
Show this first
A carries when D protects B; A passes when D closes the ball. Then show a backward pass that creates a new forward route.
See one repetition before you explain it.
The movement, pressure, and coaching cue change together. Pause on any picture or select a step below.
Why this problem
Two attackers start at the near end against D halfway up the grid. The far end is the forward target; the attackers may pass sideways or backward to reopen it. The available space and target create a reason to act. Judge the choice in context: A forward pass into an opponent is not better simply because it travels toward the target.
Ask or invite a demonstration
What reopened the forward route?
Look in the next game
The attackers recognize a forward opportunity and retain the ball when that route is closed. Watch a few opportunities for two players; record the situation and choice rather than a head-turn or touch total.
Optional home game
Use two household markers and a partner: pass through the open route, or keep and turn when the partner points to close it. Alone, alternate forward touches and controlled turns.
Use the same problem differently
Repeat a useful version; change one constraint when players are ready.