Drill Library
Transition

Transition Game — 9v9 with Counter Rules

9v9 plus GKs

Theme

Transition

Duration

35 min

Players (min–rec–max)

20–20–20

Equipment

balls, bibs, cones

Set-up

9v9 plus GKs. Goals only count if scored within eight seconds of winning possession — this forces transition speed and direct play. If you don't score within eight seconds, reset and play normal possession. High tempo throughout; ball boys needed to keep play moving.

Coaching points

  • Identify the outlet immediately — don't stand looking at the ball after you win it
  • Wide players must sprint into space the moment their team turns it over
  • Defensive transition: two seconds of grace, then full pressure — no slow jogs back

Progressions

  • Reduce the time limit to six seconds to increase urgency further
  • Award a bonus point for a transition goal scored with three passes or fewer