Game with Wingers
Number of Players: Twelve; two teams of 4, two neutral wingers, and two goalkeepers.
Objectives: To emphasize the use of flank play to spread the defense, to practice scoring off of balls crossed from the flanks; to practice defending crosses; to develop combination play and general endurance.
Organization: Play on one half of a regulation soccer field with a full-size goal centered at each end of the field area. Use cones or discs to designate a 10-yard wide zone extending the length of the field on each flank. Station two teams of 4 players each in the central zone of the field. Two additional players position in opposite flank zones to serve as the "neutral wingers". Wingers are not permitted to leave the flank zones during the general run-of-play. Station a goalkeeper in each goal. One ball required.
Procedures: Begin with a kickoff from the center of the field. Teams compete 4 vs 4 in the central zone; each defends a goal and can score in the opponent's goal. The wingers stationed in the flank zones join the team with possession of the ball to create a 6 vs 4 player advantage for the attack. Goals can be scored directly from the central zone, or off of balls crossed into the goal area by a winger. When a winger receives the ball from a central player or the goalkeeper, he or she must dribble as fast as possible to the opponent's end line and cross the ball into the goal area. Other than the restrictions applying to the wingers, regular soccer rules (offside, fouls, etc) are in effect. Award 1 point for each goal scored from the general run-of-play, award 2 points for a goal scored directly off of a cross from a winger. Team scoring the most points wins the game. Time: 20 to 25 minutes.
Coaching Tips:Encourage central players to use the wingers as much as possible, and to time their runs into the goal area in order to get on the end of crosses. Wingers should vary the type of serve (driven, lofted, swerving), and should exploit both near and far post areas of the goal. This drill can also provide goalkeeper training in receiving crosses and controlling the goal area.
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