PossessionPlaying OutPositional PlayOverload
Position Game 6v4 + GK
Play out from the keeper through a 6v4 overload into a target zone — possession with purpose and direction.
Theme
Possession
Difficulty
Advanced
Duration
20 min
Players (min–rec–max)
11–11–12
Area
35 × 40 yards
Session phase
Main
Age groups
U14, U15, U16, U18, Adult
Equipment
goal, GK, cones, bibs, balls
Objective
Develop playing out from the back with a positional overload, keeping the ball with purpose and progressing it into a target zone.
Set-up
A keeper and six outfielders (in positions) keep the ball against four pressers, aiming to progress the ball into a target zone at the far end.
How it runs
- The keeper starts it; the six play out and keep possession against the four.
- Score by passing into a team-mate's feet in the far target zone.
- Players hold their positions to keep the structure and the overload.
- If the four win it, they score by hitting a small goal or counter.
Coaching points
- Find the free man the overload always creates.
- Stay in position — width and depth keep the spaces open.
- Play forward when it's on; recycle when it isn't.
- Receive on the half-turn to progress, not just retain.
Common mistakes
- Players rotate randomly and the structure collapses — rotate positions, don't abandon them.
- The keeper is bypassed as an outfield option — the GK is the spare man; use them to reset.
- Possession becomes the goal in itself — possession with the purpose of progressing; reward line-breaking passes.
Progressions
- Two-touch maximum.
- Reduce to a 6v5.
- Add a time limit to reach the target zone.
Regressions
- 6v3 for a bigger overload.
- Bigger area.
- Remove the pressing reward.
Constraints
- Players must stay within their zones/positions.
Tags
possessionplaying-outpositional-playoverload