📋 Session Plan · Possession

9v9 Combination Play

A 60-minute combination play session for U13–U14 squads. One-twos, overlaps, third-man runs, and conditioned games.

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

Duration60 min AgeU13–U15 Players18 FocusOne-twos, third-man runs, overlaps, and combination play

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⏱Session timeline

10m

20m

26m

▦Session blocks

High-tempo rondo

10 min

7v2. One-touch only. Fast, purposeful. No stopping.

Combination patterns

20 min

One-two into a shooting position. Overlap from a wide player receiving inside. Third-man run from central combination. All three patterns, 5 reps each from 2 configurations.

9v9 combination bonus

26 min

9v9. Goal scored from a one-two, overlap, or third-man run = 3pts. Standard = 1pt. Coach identifies and calls out combination goals.

Review

4 min

Players name one combination they used in the game. Coach names one that was missed.

◆What you'll need from yourself

Technical vocabulary: one-two, overlap, third-man. Use it consistently. Players who know the names recognise the situations faster.

!Common problems

Players completing patterns in isolation but not in the game — the conditioned scoring is what bridges the gap.

?Frequently asked questions

What age group is 9v9 Combination Play suitable for?

This session is designed for U13–U15. 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 Combination Play?

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 Combination Play take?

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

What does 9v9 Combination Play focus on?

A 60-minute combination play session for U13–U14 squads. One-twos, overlaps, third-man runs, and conditioned games.