66-P10 · Phase of play · U15 up to adult

Using the 3rd Man Run to Penetrate

Using the 3rd Man Run to Penetrate is a phase of play for U15 up to adult teams (18 players, 50 × 80 yards) that works on movement, short passing and long passing.

Unlock your team's attacking potential with this phase of play practice, designed to break defensive lines using well-timed third-man runs.

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Using the 3rd Man Run to Penetrate: still from the Touchtight coaching video 2:02
Age group
U15 up to adult
Players
18 players
Area
50 × 80 yards (Full pitch)
Time
30–40 minutes
Goalkeeper
Yes
Coaches
1
Practice type
Phase of play
Coach level
Advanced (B Licence)

How it's set up

This practice is designed to help your team break through defences and create goal-scoring chances using effective third-man runs. Played on an 80 by 50-yard tapered pitch, the focus is on building from the back and linking play through the two number 10s to find the opposite midfielder. Wingers play a key role, making well-timed third-man runs to break lines and get in behind. We work through different build up play techniques all focused on creating space to play through for the 3rd man runner in behind to finish. Once the pass is played through, attackers can support to finish and defenders can recover in the half to defend the goal.

Setup diagram for Using the 3rd Man Run to Penetrate: pitch area, player positions and movements
Setup diagram · tap to enlarge

Key coaching points

  1. Set pass on the opposite side of the No.10 to create space to combine
  2. Timing of third-man runs in behind
  3. Speed of play – quick, decisive passing is key to breaking defensive lines before they recover.

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 (2:02) 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

Run it with your team.

Watch 66-P10 in full, then add it to your next session. It's one of over 1,000 practices in the Touchtight Club library.

Watch the full video ↗