Attack Either End
Attack either end 1v1 from the middle, then swap into the defender's place.
At a glance
- 20 by 35 grid, a goal at each end, two cones in the middle. A defender in each half, and 2 to 4 attackers between the cones.
- The coach serves a ball each to two attackers. They pick an end each and attack it 1v1 against that end's defender.
- When an attack ends, the attacker becomes that end's defender, and the defender joins the attackers between the cones.
- With more than 6 players, run a second grid beside it. The coach serves into each in turn.
- Progress 1: Ten seconds to score: the coach counts out loud from the serve.
- Progress 2: Practice foot only: dribble and shoot using only your practice foot.
If it's not working: Defenders stay on their goal line until the attacker crosses halfway.
- attackers
- defenders
- Ccoach
- dribble
- pass
- 1in this order
A goal at each end and a defender in each half; with more than 6 players a second grid runs beside this one and the coach serves into each in turn. Attackers wait between the two yellow cones in the middle. The coach serves a ball each to two attackers, who pick an end each and attack it 1v1. When an attack is over, the attacker becomes that end's defender and the defender runs in to join the attackers.
Full details: set up, how to play, tips and age tweaks
Set up
- Mark a grid of about 20 by 35 with a goal at each end and two yellow cones in the centre. With more than 6 players, mark a second grid beside it.
- In each grid, a defender in each half and 2 to 4 attackers between the yellow cones.
Balls, bibs, cones and goals. A grid about 20 by 35, with 2 defenders and 2 to 4 attackers. With more than 6, run a second grid beside it.
How to play
- The coach serves a ball each to two attackers. They pick an end each and attack it 1v1 against the defender at that end. With two grids, the coach stands between them and serves into each in turn.
- When the attack ends, the attacker swaps with the defender at that end, and the defender joins the attackers between the cones.
- Everyone rotates whatever the result.
Keeping everyone moving
No more than four attackers in a grid (a second grid for more than 6), and two attack at once, so you're only ever one go from the ball. Everyone swaps in and out whatever happens.
Make it easier
- Defenders stay on their goal line until the attacker crosses into their half.
- Shorten the grid to about 25 metres, so both goals are closer to the middle.
Make it harder, step by step
- Ten seconds to score: the coach counts out loud from the serve.
- Practice foot only: dribble and shoot using only your practice foot.
Three things to say
- Pick your end early.
- Attack at full speed.
- Defenders: close down, stay on your feet.
Colts habit
Be brave: attack at full speed every go.
Both feet
Attack the end that puts the ball on your practice foot.
Heads up
Pick your end before the serve.
Safety: Keep the area clear of bags and bottles. Stay on your feet, no slide tackles. No heading.