Small-sided games ยท U7 to U11

Dribble-in restarts game

A small-sided game where every restart (side line, goal line, free kick) is a dribble-in or pass-in, as in mini-soccer. Players learn to restart quickly and use space.

U7 to U11Ages
10 to 14Players
Future Fit 5v5 or 7v7 pitchArea
15 minsTime

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

Set-up

  • 5v5 or 7v7 pitch with keepers.
  • Coach explains dribble-ins: dribble or pass the ball back in.

Equipment: 2 goals, bibs, balls

How it works

  1. All restarts are dribble-ins or passes in (no throw-ins).
  2. Opponents must stand back a few metres.
  3. Quick restarts score a bonus if they lead to a goal.

Coaching points

  • Restart quickly before the defence organises.
  • Look for the free teammate or drive in.
  • Defenders: recover into position fast.

Formations this drill suits

Add this drill to a session plan โ†’

Make it easier

  • Opponents stand back further

Make it harder

  • Must restart within 5 seconds

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

Questions about this drill?

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