This week on the MSC Breakdown, we take a look at specific ways that attacking teams can unbalance opposition defensive units and exploit space in behind using the up-back-through method. With progressive passing, forward combination play, and timing of attacking runs, all working together, it can be extremely effective when you are facing compact and organized defensive teams.
Below are the key components required for a successful up-back-through combination:
The action starts with a forward pass to an attacking teammate checking into space
The attacking player then lays the ball off to a supporting player who is facing forward
The supporting player then plays a through ball into the space created for a runner
In this week's MSC Breakdown, we take a look at ways to coach it effectively. Please subscribe to our YouTube page if you enjoy it.
Here are the FREE dimensions and details for each exercise.
7v3 Vertical Game
10 players are organized into a possession team of 7 and a defensive team of 3 inside a 15x35 yard zone with a 5-yard central area
Play starts in one zone where two wide players, one target player and two central possession players play a 5v2
After completing 3 passes, the possession team are looking to play into the highest central player and then find a supporting midfielder in the space for the layoff
When that is happening, the wide players are moving forward to provide an option for the through ball and receive on the outside
Once they receive in the opposite zone, play simply resets as a 5v2 and the possession team are awarded one point
If the defenders win possession they can score in any of the mini-goals for two points
2v1 into 3v2 Game
Players are organized into two teams of 7 inside a 15x45 yard zone with a 5-yard central area
In each end zone there are two defenders and one goalkeeper against one forward, with the midfield players organized in lines for supporting runs
Play starts with the goalkeeper as the possession team look to build in a 3v1 and play into the highest supporting player in the third zone
As soon as the ball is played into the next zone, the runs arrive from the supporting players (one underneath for. the layoff and one beyond for the run)
Depending on the options available, the attacking team now arrive in a 3v2 situation to goal
After the attack the ball starts with the other goalkeeper and teams simply change roles
10v7 Tactical Game
Exercise takes place in a 20x30 yard area in one half of the pitch with a defending team of 7 and an attacking team organized into a specific shape
Back four players on the possession team are positioned on the outside but can drift in as the game progresses
As the attacking team start to circulate possession, they are looking for opportunities to break into the opponent's half via an up-back-through or any other combination (including an individual dribble)
No defenders are allowed in the final third to track runs
If the defenders win possession they can score in any of the mini-goals for two points
