Updated 9 November 2026 · Written for grassroots coaches by Gafferbook
The retreat line is used in many youth small-sided formats: when your keeper has the ball from a goal kick or after a save, the other team must drop back behind a line (often halfway) until the ball is played. It gives teams time to play out from the back. Rules vary, so check your league handbook.
How the retreat line works
When the goalkeeper has the ball to restart, the opponents move back behind the retreat line. Once the keeper plays the ball, or it's received, they can come forward again. The exact trigger and where the line sits differ between leagues and formats, so read your handbook.
It exists so young players learn to build play calmly instead of the keeper kicking it as far as possible.
How to coach it
- Spread wide when your keeper has the ball: centre-backs split, a midfielder shows.
- Play quickly before the opponents return.
- When you're defending, recover behind the line fast and get ready to press once the ball is played.
Try the retreat line build-up game and see the playing out from the back board.
Other rules to check
- Is there offside in your format? In many leagues there isn't at 5v5 or 7v7.
- Can the keeper kick or throw it over halfway?
- Are there roll-on, roll-off substitutions?
- How long are the halves or quarters?
Formats are changing in England with Future Fit; see our Future Fit guide.
Retreat line build-up game (Future Fit)
Playing out from the back 3v2 (plus keeper)
Split centre-backs and the dropping midfielder