📋 Session Plan · Possession

9v9 Possession Under Press

A 60-minute possession session for U12–U13 squads in the 9v9 format. Building out from the back against an organised press.

Reviewed by James Whitlock, FA Level 2 coach · Last updated 20 September 2026

Duration60 min AgeU12–U14 Players18 FocusBuild-out from back, playing through an organised press

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⏱Session timeline

10m

18m

28m

▦Session blocks

Rondo warm-up

10 min

6v2 rondo. One-touch maximum from minute 4. Coach: first touch only.

Build-out 5v3 pattern

18 min

GK + 4 defenders vs 3 pressing forwards. Must reach halfway. Passive press first, active after 8 minutes. Count successes.

9v9 possession scoring

28 min

9v9. Bonus: goal from sequence starting with GK short distribution = 2pts. Goal after switch of play = 2pts. Standard = 1pt.

Review

4 min

How many GK short distributions? Were they successful? One coaching point on what broke down most.

◆What you'll need from yourself

Patience in the build-out drill. Most players will panic and kick long. Hold the standard: the short option must be tried before the long ball is permitted.

!Common problems

Players abandoning the build-out in the full game — expected. The habit builds over 3–4 sessions.

?Frequently asked questions

What age group is 9v9 Possession Under Press suitable for?

This session is designed for U12–U14. Adjust pitch size, ball size and numbers to suit your squad if they sit outside this range.

How many players do I need for 9v9 Possession Under Press?

This session works well with around 18 players. With fewer, reduce group sizes or rotate players through the blocks; with more, run extra stations so everyone stays active.

How long does 9v9 Possession Under Press take?

Allow around 60 min in total for this session, including the warm-up and main blocks.

What does 9v9 Possession Under Press focus on?

A 60-minute possession session for U12–U13 squads in the 9v9 format. Building out from the back against an organised press.