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TITLE: 3v3 Plus Target Players at the Ends

PLAYERS: 8–10 players

DURATION: 15 minutes

TAGS: U10, U12, U14, U16, 7-a-side, 5-a-side, Developing, Advanced, Passing, Small-Sided Games

DESCRIPTION: A 3v3 small-sided game played on a short pitch with a target player at each end. Teams score by connecting a pass to their target player. The format encourages quick forward passing, support play, and decision-making on when to play forward.

OBJECTIVES:
- Develop forward passing and combination play to beat a press
- Improve support movement in relation to the ball
- Practice turning defense into attack quickly

EQUIPMENT: balls, cones or bibs to mark zones, bibs for target players

MAIN ACTIVITY: Set up a playing area (approx. 20x25m) with a target player for each team stationed at opposite ends. Three players from each team compete in the middle. A team scores by playing a successful pass into their target player's zone. The target player returns the ball and play continues. Rotate target players after each goal or set time.

COACHING POINTS:
- Look for the target player early — before pressure arrives
- Support the ball carrier with options left, right, and behind
- Win the ball back quickly when possession is lost
- Target players: hold their position, show for the ball, and play it back quickly

PROGRESSIONS:
- Easier: target players can move freely along the end line
- Harder: target player must receive and score in a mini-goal
- Limit field players to two touches
- Increase to 4v4 with the same target-player format