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how to avoid players being drawn to the ball as if it were a magnet

Andrew Tonner

Hi, my under 9 team (going on to u10s very soon) have regular phases in the game where players get drawn towards the ball as if it were a magnet. I know this is typical behaviour at U8s but im interested to know at what age should our team learn to stay in position more (out of possession) or run into space more (in possession) rather than the scenario where 3 or 4 players gravitate towards the ball as if it were a magnet and end up out of position/not marking and leaving gaps or not running into space. I've advised the team they need to constantly be looking around where the ball is/where they are/where the opposition are and to look up to check their position rather than gravitate towards the ball, and ive also encouraged the idea that the nearest player to the ball closes down (not 3 or 4 players gravitating towards the ball. But this doesnt seem to be working.

Also any tips on any training sessions that could help us with the avoidable mistake of being drawn to the ball like its a magnet?

thanks 

Parents
  • 0

    hi Andrew 

    i would look at playing in zones, so divide the pitch up into channels if possible also boxes where you can go anywhere on the pitch you like but only 1 player from each team are allowed in box. lots of 1v1's and also big overloads like 7v3 but as they get older you will probably be asking 3/4 to gravitate towards the ball when learning to press. So to give them a good understanding why/when and how not to gravitate with pictures/coaches board is really important too

    all the best

Reply
  • 0

    hi Andrew 

    i would look at playing in zones, so divide the pitch up into channels if possible also boxes where you can go anywhere on the pitch you like but only 1 player from each team are allowed in box. lots of 1v1's and also big overloads like 7v3 but as they get older you will probably be asking 3/4 to gravitate towards the ball when learning to press. So to give them a good understanding why/when and how not to gravitate with pictures/coaches board is really important too

    all the best

Children