Custom Team Football Formation

Starting Lineup

Tyler L · Arjun G (Braden C) · Liam R · Alex M (Jackson C) · Eman (Dima, Jaxon L) · Lal Z (Aidan W) · Rory (Caden B, Surpreet) · Harsh (Tyler D) · Jayden (Keaton) · Gavin C (Fernando) · Cole H (Trent)

1. The timing of movement to gain possession is vital and the pivot"s first touch should open out enabling the player to see the whole pitch in front while being aware of opposition players nearby

2. The wide midfielders provide width by positioning themselves near the touchline, opening up the vertical passing options to the left (11) and right (7) forwards or being options to receive if the opposition narrows off. Attacking midfielder (10) occupies space in central area of the pitch to receive and advance forwards or to make a run from deep to combine with wide forwards

3. The central forward (9) provides depth by staying advanced and in line with the opposition defensive unit, as the wide forwards (11 and 7) drop off to exploit the space and be options to receive

4. If the opposition midfielder screens the vertical pass, the left or right centre back may advance forwards to receive a square pass and exploit the space. If this occurs, the pivot (6) will then drop into the defensive line, maintaining the +1 rule of always having one more defender than there are attackers.

Scenario 2

1. As the ball is on the left side of the pitch with the wide midfielder the opposition have shifted across, leaving the right side of the pitch exposed. The pivot (6) provides an option behind the ball to receive. The right midfielder has stayed wide to stretch the opposition and exploit the "weak" side, and the pivot recognises this option and switches play quickly to change the angle of attack

2. The right forward (7) stays inside to provide a vertical option to receive and also to create space for the right midfielder (8) to exploit. If B8 receives the ball, then the right forward can provide an option to combine

3. If the opposition midfielder screens the passing lines, a square pass to the advancing right centre back may be played to then exploit the weak side through quick combination play. As the ball is played, the pivot drops into the defensive unit to maintain the +1 rule.

The key to exposing the "weak" side is quick, accurate passing and movement to unbalance the opposition.