48-P12 · Pattern of play · U15 up to adult
3rd Man Runs in Behind
3rd Man Runs in Behind is a pattern of play for U15 up to adult teams (10 players, 50 × 45 yards) that works on movement, finishing and crossing.
This pattern of play develops fullbacks making third-man runs to break in behind the defence, starting from the midfield.
Opens in Touchtight Club · 14-day free trial · Card required
1:23 - Age group
- U15 up to adult
- Players
- 10 players
- Area
- 50 × 45 yards (1/2 Pitch)
- Time
- 30–40 minutes
- Goalkeeper
- Yes
- Coaches
- 1
- Practice type
- Pattern of play
- Coach level
- Intermediate (C Licence)
How it's set up
This pattern of play takes pace in a full half of a pitch and focuses on developing fullbacks 3rd man runs in behind, when initiating the attack from the midfield third. We setup by placing 4 mannequins as shown, with one player starting on each. To begin, our midfielder (4) will pass to the other midfielder (8) who runs off the mannequin to receive. They will turn inside and pass forward to our striker (9) who drops in to receive the pass. The striker will play a penetrating pass through for the full back (2) who runs in behind the defence. The attacking midfielder (10) will make a run into the box and finish the delivery from the full back. Rotate positions after every attack/every 2nd attack to get players comfortable in each area of the field.
Key coaching points
- Timing of runs in behind - stay onside
- Passing weight and accuracy
- Short sharp movements off the mannequins to receive passes
Also in the full practice
- 2 progressions to make it harder as your players improveIn Club
- 3 player questions to check understanding during the practiceIn Club
- The coach-led video (1:23) how to set it up and deliver itIn Club
- Add it to your team's Dugout drop it into a session plan with your warm-up and gameIn Club
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Run it with your team.
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