Triangle Gate Game

This simple but competitive small-sided game is a great warm-up for any passing and possession session and can be enjoyed by players of all ages from 9 years and up.

Triangle Gate Drill

Set Up The Drill

Mark off a 30 x 40-yard grid with small cones. Within the grid, create two 4x4x4 triangles, using tall cones or poles/flags. The triangles should be placed in the opposite corners of the grid as seen in the diagram. Split the players up into two teams of 4 and put one team in colored bibs. Have a supply of balls ready to help facilitate quick restarts.

Instructions

Teams compete for possession of the ball with each team defending one triangle and attacking the other. To score a point a  player must make a successful pass to a teammate through the triangle that they are attacking (i.e the pass goes through one side of the triangle & out through another and is then received by a teammate). Players are not allowed inside either of the triangles. If an infraction occurs a free kick is awarded to the other team.

Progression

Progress the activity so both teams can now score a point on either triangle.

Coaching Points

• Encourage the attacking team to have good team shape on the ball. In a team of 4, one defender two midfielders, and an attacker can create a diamond shape providing depth and width in attack.
• Keep your head up and look for the open triangle to attack. If one triangle is heavily defended can you switch the play to attack the other one?
• Good passing and communication throughout.
• When supporting a teammate, create positive angles of support so you can be clear, visible, and in open space.
• When you lose the ball, get ‘goal-side’ and make it difficult for your opponents to get behind you and score on the closest triangle.

Tip:

For more advanced teams add the following additional progression: Teams can only score a point by scoring consecutively in one triangle and then the other.