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Possession Functions are training exercises which often focus on elements of in-possession play, however may also encourage the development of out-of-possession and transition traits. Generally, some iteration of ball retention principles will be relevant to create flow. Possession Functions can be implemented with a varied number of players while tempo and intensity within these sessions is often high.
Name
Age
Description
Amination
Playing 'Through' vs Playing 'Around'
This 3 team possession creates opportunities to play around and/or through the defending team. Players must show intelligent movement and an awareness of their progression options.
U13+
Finding the CF's Feet
This possession function encourages switching play and penetrating passes into the attacking zone. CF's must make intelligent movement & be comfortable holding up play.
U15+
This possession function encourages passes behind the defensive unit. Players must time their movement well in order to exploit the space behind the defence.
U15+
Playing Behind the Defence
This possession function encourages transitions on both sides of the ball. T2A: Pass quickly to targets. T2D: Collapse around the ball at pace.
Transitional Possession
U13+
Positional possession transfer focusing on progressing play through the middle of the pitch using 3CM's, 2CB's & 1CF. Developing combination play & movement to receive.
Building-Up Centrally
U12+
The yellow team build-up and look to find the top two players. If the reds win the ball, they can play forward and transition into a 2v2 towards the mini-goals.
Playing Between the Lines
U14+
Possession team plays into 'attackers' after a predetermined number of passes. One player from the build-up zone joins in to create a 3v2.
5v3 Build-Up into 3v2 Attack
U14+
Reds pass into the receiver in the box before scoring into the mini-goals. If the yellow team keep a clean sheet, they defend for one minute. If they concede, they defend for an extra minute.
Defend the Box
U12+
In this positional possession, players on the in-possession team must occupy each vertical & horizontal channel. The neutral player is free to move anywhere & should pick up helpful positions.
3v3+3 Zonal Possession
U16+
Creating a box midfield? This simple possession function encourages movement to overload central areas. Rule: Possession team can drop 1 outside player into the middle of the square.
Overloading Midfield (3v3+4)
U15+
The red team attempts to break down the yellows by playing a pass into the middle grid. If the yellows win the ball, they may transition towards the mini-goals, using the target player as a bounce pass.
Breaking Down vs Breaking Out
U14+
4v4+2 Transitional Possession
U13+
John Mousinho (Portsmouth) Possession
U15+
Teams look to keep possession for 10 passes with red & yellows locked into 1v1 boxes. Teams can use outside neutral players to assist with ball retention.
Directional Possession
2v2 + 2v1(x4)
U15+
Set-up as shown, with both teams organised into two external 2v1s, surrounding a central 2v2. Teams attempt to transfer the ball from one 2v1 through the middle, to the other.
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