Passing to keep possession

Organisation

• Use one half of the court.

• Split the players into two teams of 5, including goalkeepers.

Explanation

• Set up a 5v4 possession game.

• The in-possession team have a numerical advantage.

• When possession is lost, the player who played the last pass before possession was surrendered has to sit out and is replaced by an opposition player. 

Variations

• Variation 1: goalkeepers are limited to one touch.

• Variation 2: all players are limited to one touch.

• Variation 3: play a 5v5 with no restrictions on the number of touches allowed.

• Variation 4: the out-of-possession team have a 5v4 numerical advantage. 

• Variation 5: goalkeepers are limited to one touch.

Coaching points

• Players should focus on ball retention and try not to play loose passes.

• Forward passes should be considered a priority for all players, as they can enhance ball circulation.

• Non-ball-carrying players should create passing lines to provide team-mates with options at all times and to create space.

• Intelligent off-the-ball movement helps to disrupt the opposition.

• Be patient in possession rather than trying to force passes that are not on. 

• All players should move and support team-mates when not in possession. Standing still and waiting for the ball is likely to result in possession being lost.

• When possible, play quicker combinations such as one-touch passing, which can be more effective.