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Practice games

Alleys

2v1 over halfway, then 2v1 against the next defender to score.

Practice 13 min 6 to 12 players Half pitch 2016 to 2017

Brave 1v1 Win It, Keep It, Score Be brave

Alleys set-up, from the Irish FA Grassroots Resource Booklet

Set up

  • Mark a 20 by 30 grid split in half, with a goal at one end.
  • One defender in each half. Attackers in pairs.

Balls, bibs, cones and nets. 20 by 30 grid split in half with a defender in each half.

How to play

  • The attacking pair plays 2v1 trying to get over the halfway line.
  • Once over, the first defender cannot enter the half closest to the goal. The pair plays 2v1 against the next defender and tries to score.
  • Defenders and attackers rotate roles after each go so everyone attacks and defends.

Keeping everyone moving

Two alleys side by side so the wait is short.

Make it easier

  • Start as a 1v1 with no goalkeeper, or with only one defender.

Make it harder

  • Add a time limit to get over halfway or to score.
  • Limit the number of touches each player has.

Three things to say

  • First touch, passing and movement to support.
  • Dribbling and shooting.
  • Defending: close down, slow down, stay on your feet.

Colts habit

Lift each other: the pass or the dribble, whichever helps your partner.

Both feet

Beat the first defender with the practice foot.

Heads up

Look for your partner before halfway.

The Colts change: Two alleys side by side so the wait is short.

Safety: Keep the area clear of bags and bottles. Stay on your feet, no slide tackles. No heading.

Keeping score: Each child keeps their own count and tries to beat it next time. Nothing is compared between children.