4v4v4 possession with a rotating outside team
Activation for three teams of four in a 20x20 yard square: one keeps the ball on the outside, one attacks inside and one defends inside. The outside team circulates quickly to pull the defenders out of shape, plays inside and, after a turnover, swaps roles with the defending team.
El equipo exterior mueve rápido el balón para desordenar a los defensores, que solo pueden interceptar.
Objective
Quick, accurate circulation to disorganise the defending block, small sharp movements to receive inside, and good supporting angles between team-mates and outside players.
Organisation
20x20 yard square (about 18x18 m) marked with cones. Three teams of four in coloured bibs: the outside team with one player on each side, the attacking team and the defending team inside the square. Spare balls on every side.
Development
- 1The outside team keeps possession around the perimeter with quick, accurate passing to move the defending team out of shape.
- 2While the ball is outside, the defenders may only shadow and intercept; they cannot tackle the ball carrier.
- 3When an opening appears, the outside team plays into the attacking team, which combines and returns the ball to a different side from the one it came from.
- 4As soon as the ball enters the square the defenders may tackle.
- 5If the defending team wins the ball or it goes out, the outside team comes in to defend and the defenders go out to the sides; four-minute sets, counting balls successfully played in and out.
Coaching points4
- Quick, accurate passing outside: the ball moves the defenders, not the players.
- Attackers make small, sharp movements to create space and receive facing play.
- Good supporting angles both among the four inside and with the outside players.
- Return the ball to a different side to force the defenders to turn.
Common mistakes3
- The outside team plays inside before moving the defending block.
- Attackers offering in line with a defender and receiving with their back to play.
- Defenders chasing the ball around the outside instead of holding their shape.
Variations3
- Outside players play one touch.
- The attacking team must complete three passes inside before playing out.
- Double points if the ball enters and leaves on opposite sides.
Progressions2
- Defenders may also press the outside with one player.
- Reduce to 16x16 m.
Regressions2
- Enlarge to 22x22 m with unlimited touches.
- Defenders cannot intercept the entry pass, only the inside play.
Tips
- Use a clock so all three teams go through all three roles.
- Ideal as an activation before more complex positional work.