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3v3 to Goals

Drill Quick Glance
Age: 4+ Field: 20X30
Players: 6+ Focus: Game-like
Difficulty: MEDIUM Time: 20 MINS.
Goalkeeper: NO Team
Rating: 0 / 5 Views: 1,454
Published: 2/16/2025 Author: Chris Johnson
Drill Objective

This drill develops players' ability to attack and defend in small spaces while encouraging quick decision-making, teamwork, and fitness through constant movement.

A small-sided 3v3 game that enhances attacking, defending, and transition play while providing high-energy, game-like scenarios with continuous player rotation.
Drill setup
  1. Field Size: 20x30 yards
  2. Goals: Two goals, one at each end line (cones, training sticks, or small goals)
  3. Players: Two teams (yellow & blue), rotating substitutes
  4. Ball Supply: Multiple soccer balls with the coach
  5. Starting Positions: 3 players per team on the field, substitutes waiting near the coach
Drill Instructions
  1. Divide players into two teams (yellow and blue) and assign each team a goal to defend.
  2. Play begins with a kickoff or coach's pass-in.
  3. Teams compete 3v3, working to score while defending their goal.
  4. After 1-2 minutes, rotate one player from each team off and a new player on to keep legs fresh.
  5. If there are 12 or more players, run a second 3v3 game, rotating teams every 3-4 minutes.
  6. Play continues with quick rotations, ensuring all players get equal playtime.
Drill Variations
  • Touch Restriction: Limit players to two touches to encourage faster play.
  • Weaker Foot Challenge: Players must shoot using their weaker foot.
  • Man-Marking Challenge: Each player must mark a specific opponent at all times.
  • Bonus Points: Award an extra point for a goal scored after three consecutive passes.
  • Different Scoring Zones: Require players to shoot from inside a designated area for a goal to count.
Drill Coaching Points

This fast-paced drill simulates real-game situations, enhances player development in both attack and defense, and keeps players engaged with constant movement and rotations.

  • Encourage Quick Decision-Making: Players must react fast in attacking and defensive situations.
  • Support & Movement Off the Ball: Players should create passing options and space.
  • Defensive Organization: Defenders must communicate and work as a unit.
  • Transition Play: Quickly transition from defense to attack and vice versa.
  • Finishing Under Pressure: Players should take quick, accurate shots when opportunities arise.
Drill Equipment Drill Ages Drill Topic
Soccer Drill Titled: 3v3 to Goals
Tagged:
  • 3V3 SOCCER
  • SMALL-SIDED GAME
  • ATTACKING
  • DEFENDING
  • TRANSITION PLAY
Published by: Chris Johnson

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