Diagonal Connections
Two unopposed groups create diagonal connections by moving into vacant grid zones before receiving.
- 12 min
- 6–12 players
Game · U12
Touchline Restart Choice
Two receivers coordinate support for a stationary touchline restart; the passer selects a safe first ground delivery and each reception ends the episode.
- Duration
- 10 min
- Players
- 5–10 (ideal 5)
- Passing
- Movement
- Scanning
Setup
Step 1 of 2
One complete 5-player group is shown. One passer starts with a stationary ball on the left touchline. Two blue receivers offer separate short options; two red players screen their routes. All players stay in the clear marked area.
Coaching points
- Setup: One passer starts with a stationary ball on the left touchline. Two blue receivers offer separate short options; two red players screen their routes. All players stay in the clear marked area.
- Play: The receivers move to make two different support options. The passer chooses a free ground route; a controlled first reception scores one and immediately stops play. A red interception scores one for the defenders and also ends the episode. Do not continue into keepaway.
- Reset and rotation: Return the ball to the same touchline with play stopped. Rotate one place through passer, upper receiver, lower receiver and both defender roles after every attempt. Take a short rest after five episodes, then restart from the opposite touchline.
- Numbers: The diagram shows 5 players. With up to 10, 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: Look at both options before committing. Receivers should avoid making the same run; use a clear call and a reachable delivery.
- Safety: Ground service, interception only and no body contact. This kick-in is a training restart convention, not a statement of match laws; no countdown or rushed release is required.
Equipment
- Ball · 2 per group, including a spare
- Flat Marker · 4 per group for field and zone corners, in addition to pictured markers
- Bib · 5 per group; colours match the pictured roles
Progressions
- Easier Defenders stay still while the receivers move and the passer selects the open option.
- Harder Defenders adjust their screen before the restart; the receivers change their support angles and the passer reassesses.
