Two plus one v two

Set up this problem for your players to solve and the solution might turn into a play. The extra attacker arrives from behind the front line and looks to attack different gaps.

The hidden third attacker can create space for the ball carrier and front line support player as the defenders might be drawn to potential threats.

ACTIVITY

ABOVE: Here, the first receiver fixes the defender and passes to the back attacker. Note the passer should pass so they are blocking the defender sliding across.

1. Split the players into three attackers and two defenders. Have a feeder pass the ball into the attackers.
2. The third attacker should start behind the front line.
3. The attack should use passing and running to beat the defence.
4. Initially let your players have a go without any instruction on how to exploit potential gaps.

ABOVE: Here, the first receiver draws out the defender and passes inside (or goes themselves).

1. A big help is to start them in an L formation, this will add pace, depth and decoy. Once they have had several attempts show them some options as outlined in the diagrams.

ABOVE: Here, the first receiver passes late, and the outside attacker draws the defender away and passes inside.

DEVELOPMENTS

1. Have the attackers start at the side and run into position before receiving the ball.
2. Allow grab tackling, so the ball carrier can pass out of the tackle.

LOOK FOR

• All the attackers play at game speed, with urgency.
• Defenders are drawn away from where the ball is going.
• Defenders are fixed and flat-footed.
• Passes are accurate and let the receiver take the ball comfortably.
• The attack uses a variety of running lines and options to assist the success of the 3 v 2.
• The attacking players communicate with each other to help the decision making or to help create a decoy.