Drill Library
Transition

Transition — Counter-Attack Waves

Coach feeds a ball to an attacking team of 5 versus 4 defenders

Theme

Transition

Duration

25 min

Players (min–rec–max)

20–20–20

Equipment

cones, bibs, balls

Set-up

Coach feeds a ball to an attacking team of 5 versus 4 defenders. Attacking team tries to score on a full-size goal. If defenders win it, they counter 4v3 the other way into a smaller goal. Reset and repeat — quick, continuous, demanding.

Coaching points

  • On transition from defend to attack: first pass should be forward within 3 seconds — no dwelling.
  • Wingers and forwards must sprint ahead on counter; do not wait for ball to move first.
  • Defender who wins ball starts the counter — do not hold it, play it immediately.

Progressions

  • Add a press rule: losing team has 4 seconds to apply pressure or loses a bonus point.
  • Increase to 6v5 to add complexity and reduce space for the counter.