Build-up play ยท U8 to U11

Retreat line build-up game (Future Fit)

A match where, whenever a keeper has the ball, the other team must retreat behind the halfway (retreat) line. It mirrors Future Fit and 7v7 match rules and gives keepers time to play out.

U8 to U11Ages
10 to 14 including keepersPlayers
5v5 or 7v7 pitchArea
20 minsTime

Your assistant coach: turn this drill into a full session, plan the weeks around it and tell me how it went.

Set-up

  • Normal small-sided pitch with a coned retreat line.
  • Two teams with keepers.

Equipment: Cones for the retreat line, two goals, bibs

How it works

  1. When a keeper gets the ball, opponents retreat behind the line.
  2. The keeper passes or rolls it out; opponents can press once the ball is received.
  3. Bonus point if the team plays out and scores without a long kick.

Coaching points

  • Defenders: spread wide as soon as your keeper has it.
  • Keeper: look before you pass; play to the free player.
  • Opponents: recover fast, then press together.

Formations this drill suits

Add this drill to a session plan โ†’

Make it easier

  • Opponents can't press until the second pass

Make it harder

  • No bonus unless the ball crosses halfway in four passes

AttackersDefendersKeeper / neutral- - โ†’ Passโ†’ Runใ€ฐโ†’ Dribble

Questions about this drill?

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