COUNTER ATTACKING FROM MIDFIELD...

An up-to-date session plan being delivered with a modern approach. Well, that’s my aim every time I step on to the field.

Sometime it doesn’t always work out that way, but at least I know I’ve given it a damn good try. 

This session, “Counter Attack from Midfield” I have run a few times with different groups inclusive of the Jersey FA Centre of Excellence and a couple of local clubs where I have been given the opportunity to come in and work with their youngsters.

As we know, even the most in depth planning can be cast aside once you turn up and the number of kids is different, some times less, sometimes more. You may only have one goalkeeper; the area you have is smaller than you thought; the ability is very mixed; the attitude and desire of players varies considerably; etc etc. 

So I do always try to prepare for a change in circumstances and have a back up plan for different scenarios.

The session is very enjoyable when it goes fluidly and learning appears to take place effortlessly (as they all are), but sometimes you hit a few stumbling blocks that as a coach you need to overcome and sometimes think on your feet.

The format I have adjusted to accommodate extra or fewer players turning up last minute than expected. This has been done by having a  4v2 in the centre with 2 defenders vs 1 attacker in each end, and also 6v4 in the centre and 2v2 in the end zones.

Tip: try to keep the sides even across the midfield zone (inlcusive of wingers).

Without going into too much detail now, this is a session that I have in my Youth Module 3 pack, where I need to write up the evaluation form for it. Once completed, I will share with you for your feedback.

As a coach if you haven’t tried this session with your current team (suitable for teenagers) challenge yourself as a coach and give it a go. 

Take yourself out of your comfort zone and try something new; you never know, you may just surprise yourself.

---