SoccerXpert Soccer Drills

3v3 Plus Keepers to Full-Size Goals

Soccer Drill Diagram: 3v3 Plus Keepers to Full-Size Goals
3V3 SOCCER, FINISHING, GOALKEEPING, TRANSITION PLAY, ATTACKING
Drill Equipment

Disc Cones/Markers, Scrimmage Vests, Soccer Balls, Full-Size Goal

Drill Quick Glance
Age: 9+ Field: 40X30
Players: 8+ Focus: Game-like
Difficulty: MEDIUM Time: 20 MINS.
Goalkeeper: YES Team
Rating: 0 / 5 Views: 288
Published: 3/21/2025 Author: Chris Johnson

This drill improves small-group attacking and defending, finishing under pressure, and goalkeeper distribution. It simulates game-like conditions in a compact space, encouraging quick decisions and dynamic play.

Drill setup
  1. Field Size: 40 yards long by 30 yards wide
  2. Goals: Set up two full-size goals on each end line and assign a goalkeeper to each. If a full-size goal is not available, use a rebounder, training sticks, cones, or two wide mini-goals
  3. Players: 3v3 with 1 goalkeeper in each goal
  4. Ball Supply: Multiple soccer balls with the goalkeepers or coach
Drill Coaching Points

This game-style drill promotes technical and tactical development in an engaging and competitive format, with frequent touches, shots, and decision-making opportunities.

  • Quick Transitions: Encourage fast counterattacks after winning the ball.
  • Finishing: Players should focus on accuracy and composure in front of goal.
  • Defensive Awareness: Defenders must communicate and cover space as a unit.
  • Support Play: Off-the-ball movement creates passing lanes and scoring opportunities.
  • Goalkeeper Distribution: Goalkeepers should play accurate, quick restarts to maintain game flow.
Drill Instructions
  1. Play 3v3 plus a keeper.
  2. The goalkeeper starts play anytime the ball goes over the end line or a goal is scored.
  3. If the ball goes out over the sideline, play is restarted with a kick-in or throw-in.
  4. Play for a set time (e.g., 3-5 minute rounds), then rotate teams or goalkeepers as needed.
  5. Emphasize continuous play and quick restarts to maintain intensity.
Drill Variations
  • Touch Limit: Limit field players to two touches to increase pace and decision speed.
  • Scoring Zones: Create bonus scoring zones inside the box for specific finishing objectives.
  • Power Play: Allow a team to temporarily add a fourth attacker for 30 seconds after scoring.
  • Weak Foot Finish: Require players to shoot with their weaker foot for specific rounds.
Drill Focus

Dribbling, Passing, Receiving, Possession, Defending, Attacking, Shooting, Goalkeeping