Improving Speed of Play - U10 to U17 Advance Soccers Drills

This soccer drill is designed to improve the speed of play, decision making, and passing accuracy under pressure.
Soccer Drill contributed by: Chris Johnson

Soccer Drill Info:
This is for ages U10, U12, U14, U16. Run this soccer drill with at least 4 players but no more than 4. This soccer drill should last approximately 20 minutes on a small field. Make sure you have the following equipment: cones, alternate jersey.

Soccer Drill Diagram

Setup:
Create a grid approximately 15X15 yards (make the grid smaller or larger depending on the skill and age of the players). You will need 4 players per grid and two soccer balls. You will be playing 3 attackers vs. 1 defender and the defender should be holding alternate jersey in their hands while defending.

Instructions:
The 3 attackers must keep possession from the 1 defender. The attackers can position themselves anywhere within the grid, and should be constantly moving to create good support for his teammates with the ball. The defender is not trying to win the ball, however, their goal is to touch the attacker while that player is in possession of the ball. If the defender is successful, he hands the alternate jersey to the attacker and they switch roles. If the attackers can hold possession for the count of "30 elephants" they earn a point (reduce this time based on age and skill level of the players).

Variations:

* Have the defenders tackle the players for the ball. Switch roles when ball is won.
* Limit or increase the number of touches by the attacking players.

Coaching Points:

* Make sure the players have good supporting movement and angles.
* Help the players think a step ahead of the defenders. Know where the next ball is going to come from or go.
* Make good passing decisions with good pace.
* Introduce combination play into the mix.

Focus:
Technical Dribbling, Technical Passing, Tactical Support, Tactical Possession, Tactical Movement with/Without The Ball, Tactical Role of Midfielder, Tactical Combination Play, Tactical Vision, Tactical Overlapping