Adult Attacking Patterns — 75 Minutes
A 75-minute session building three repeatable attacking patterns for adult squads — overlap and cross, central combination, and switch of play.
▦Session blocks
Pattern Play 5v0
Five-player combination at full pace. Three cycles. By the end of this block the squad should be sharp on quick passing combinations — the foundation skill the rest of the session depends on.
Overlap and Cross
Full-back overlap pattern: winger receives, drives infield, full-back overlaps wide, winger plays the wide ball, full-back delivers the cross. Two strikers in the box — near post and back post runs. 12 reps from each side. Call the routine name before every execution: 'Overlap!'
Switch of Play
From narrow left side play, the central midfielder switches diagonally to the right full-back who attacks the space. The switch must reach the receiver in their stride — they're already moving when the ball arrives. 10 reps switching each direction.
11v11 — Named Patterns
Full game. Bonus scoring: goal from a named pattern (Overlap, Switch, or central combination) called aloud before the move = 3 points. Goal from improvised play = 1 point. Forces players to recognise pattern opportunities in match flow rather than only in drills.
◆What you'll need from yourself
Clear demonstrations and high energy. Keep the session moving with minimal queuing, and reinforce one or two key coaching points rather than overloading players with information.
!Common problems
Players standing in queues (set up enough stations to keep everyone active) and the session running too long on one activity (keep blocks tight and move on while engagement is high).