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Medium Sided Games (SSG's) are training exercises which are modifications of the regular 11v11 match format. Generally ranging from 5v5 to 9v9, SSG's are favourable as they allow players the opportunity to experience relevant football actions at a greater rate when compared to an 11v11. Coaches can use SSG's to develop specific technical/tactical/physical/mental aspects of the game in a game realistic setting. SSG's are often directional and can support a range of different conditions/rules.
Name
Age
Description
Amination
'Bounce or Dribble'
SSG conditioned so that when players receive the ball, they must either play a one touch pass OR dribble into a new zone. Scanning, quick decision making & 1v1 skills will be key in this session.
U8-11
'Playing into Midfield'
SSG encouraging build-up play and passes into the midfield unit. Midfielders must make angles behind the opposition midfield in order to receive and move into the attacking zone.
U13+
SSG focusing on playing passes into the striker. The striker may look to create space to shoot before receiving or pin & spin the defender.
U13+
Finding the Striker
SSG encouraging passes behind the defence. Each team must be creative with their attacking movement in order to get in behind the players in the defensive zone.
Playing behind the Defence
U14+
In this SSG, the reds attempt to play through yellow & find their target player. If the yellows win the ball, they counter into the opposite goal using their wide players.
Breaking Down vs Breaking Out
U14+
After scoring, the goalscorer in the SSG runs into the wide area to complete a 1v1. The other team may counter-attack using their overload while this happens.
Counter-Attacking with 1v1's
U13-U18
SSG where players must drop into the free central channel & look to receive side-on before attacking. Movement, body shape & attacking combinations are all key.
Receiving on the Half Turn
U13+
Goals with an overlap in the build-up are worth double. Teams may pass to wide players & overlap them. Wide players can then join in & overload the pitch or use the overlapping player.
Overlapping Runs in SSG
U13+
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