U12 — 9v9 Transitions and Counter-Attack

The call-your-pass rondo. 6v2 with full name-calling rule. Reactivates decision-making speed before the transition work that follows.

The forward carry after winning the ball. Player receives, drives through the gate (midfield line), beats passive defender, finishes. Focus: first touch forward, acceleration through the gate. Link: 'This is what the counter-attack looks like in isolation — now we put it in the game.'

Four attackers, three defenders. When defenders win the ball they become attackers immediately. The speed of the role-swap is the point — no pause, no reset. Players who react slowly to losing/winning the ball will be exposed. This is the drill to use at U12 even though it's tagged U13 — the concept is accessible.

Full 9v9. Bonus: if a team scores within 6 seconds of winning the ball (a counter-attack goal) = 3 points. If a team recovers their shape within 4 seconds of losing the ball (no goal conceded) = 1 point. Coach or assistant counts and calls bonus points aloud. End with a 3-minute debrief: 'How many counter-attack goals? How many recovery bonuses?'

Three questions: 'What does a good transition forward look like?' 'What does a good transition back look like?' 'Name one player who did both well today.' Jog, dynamic stretch, 2 minutes.