Target Pins Match
Each team protects a line of upright cones while using passes and support to find a ground route to the opposing pins.
- 10 min
- 6–12 players
Game · U14
Changing Allies
Four pairs change allies on a clear coach call, then combine towards the two targets belonging to the opposing alliance.
- Duration
- 12 min
- Players
- 8–16 (ideal 8)
- Teamwork
- Passing
- Scanning
- Possession
Setup
Step 1 of 2
One complete 8-player group is shown. Four pairs use B, Y, R and T bib codes and matching target labels. The coach stands outside. Begin with B and Y allied against R and T.
Coaching points
- Setup: Four pairs use B, Y, R and T bib codes and matching target labels. The coach stands outside. Begin with B and Y allied against R and T.
- Play: Allied pairs share possession and may score in either opposing pair’s mini goal. A ground goal scores one for the alliance. Only change allies with the ball stopped: the coach names the new paired codes and all players confirm their teammates and target goals.
- Reset and rotation: After a goal or ball out, the non-scoring alliance restarts from a clear centre position. Every 45 seconds pause, give a new alliance and rotate pair starting positions. Pause for a short explanation if anyone is unsure.
- Numbers: The diagram shows 8 players. With up to 16, use a second complete group in a separate area. Odd spare players rest off the area and rotate into a playing role every 45 seconds; everyone has equal turns.
- Coach focus: Scan for the announced teammate codes before passing. Ask players to identify their shared targets aloud at each restart.
- Safety: No tackling, contact or goalkeeper. Ground shots only; goals secured and clear of retrieval paths. Stop the ball before every alliance change.
Equipment
- Ball · 2 per group, including a spare
- Mini Goal · 4 per group
- Flat Marker · 4 per group for field and zone corners, in addition to pictured markers
- Bib · 8 per group; colours match the pictured roles
Progressions
- Easier Keep the same alliances for two bouts and let players point to the correct targets before restarting.
- Harder Use a different alliance each stopped bout, then ask each pair to find the new supporting pair without coach prompting.
