Building through the center
A passing pattern through the middle of the pitch. It simulates building from the center back, through midfield, to the striker, with a timed run from a second-line player.
Aim
- Improve the quality of the short pass and the long pass
- Timing and coordination between the players along the line of progression
- Understanding of building through the center
- Better receiving
How it runs
In Part A, the pattern uses short passes combined with set-backs to progress through the center under control. In Part B, long balls to the striker are added. The focus is on quality control, a good lay-off and a finish from the joining player.
Setup
- Place cones or mannequins in a diamond: center back as the start point, holding midfielder, two central midfielders and a striker
- One player at each cone
- Two mini goals at the end to finish the move
- Extra balls next to the center back keep the work flowing
Coaching points
- Accuracy and weight of pass, matched to the distance and the situation
- Support angles that create clear passing lines
- Timing of movement, not too early and not too late
- An open body shape when receiving, facing the next action
- Communication between players, with and without words
- A high work rate that keeps the flow
- Quality of control, above all on the long ball
- A quick, accurate finish with as few touches as possible
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