This short-sided game adds a simple twist to the soccer goal which makes for a fun exercise. The game uses just a single goal (with no goalie), consisting of two discs spread about 5 feet apart, which can be scored on from either side.

Place the discs in the center of the game area, with about 15 yards of space on all sides. Hopefully you'll have enough practice area to keep multiple games going on at once.

Split your team up into pairs, with two pairs playing against each other in a 2 v 2 scenario. The object of the game is to advance the ball between the discs, scoring a "goal". The fun and tricky part of this game is that it doesn't matter which side of the goal you score from. A missed shot that passes just wide from one side can be instantly rebounded back through the other side, by either team.

If a ball is stolen by Player A right in front of the goal, a goal can be scored immediately. Player A does not have to dribble it back to any starting point, etc.

Some interesting strategy soon develops, and the bottom line is that it's fun for the kids, keeps them thinking, and results in a really good scrimmage.

You might start with "first one to 5 wins", or use a 3-5 minute time limit. For variety, rotate your pairs around between games so that each 2-player team plays different opponents.

Finally, to focus on good ball control, a rule that a shot must be below waist level to count as a goal is always a good one with this setup. Passing, dribbling, and tackling are the key skills emphasized here, versus long powerful shots.

 

If there are games that you like to use that you don't see here, please pass them along! Just email us at info@soccerforcoaches.com.