Information Section
Zone 14, often referred to as 'the hole' is the area in front of the opponents' penalty box. Stats have shown that many goals have been created there over the years, which is why teams often try to shut this area down and deny space. Sides such as Man City and Barcelona now look to get players into the half spaces, either side of the central zone 14 area. In these pockets of space, between opposition central and wide players, attacking players can look to link with each other to create through ball opportunities.
In Part 1, Jack uses a smaller version of the full practice he is working towards so the players can learn some of the pictures they will need to create when defenders are added and spaces between attacking players increases. The team were working in a 4-2-3-1 system at this time, so the practice has been designed with that in mind.
This practice was filmed as part of Jack's UEFA B qualification.
Coaching Points
* Speed of play: often 2 & 1 touch to move defenders around & create gaps.
* Timing and weight of passes, including disguises, plus receiving on the half turn.
* Switching play from wing to wing via the middle until we create an overload.
* Decision making: recognising when to be patient & when to be incisive & exploit overloads.
* Quick defensive and attacking transition.
* Using double movements, making good angles of support & communicating.
* Coordinated movements & awareness of space, team-mates & opponents.
* Breaking lines with passes & 3rd man runs.
