| Players | 4 |
|---|---|
| Notation | All four players; no goalkeeper in this diagram |
| Purpose | A starting picture, not fixed places |
| Before using | Confirm your competition’s playing format |
What this shape makes possible
The two higher players can offer separate routes toward goal. This can help a group explore attacking width.
The problem to watch for
The lone deeper player needs help immediately after a turnover. The connector should recover rather than watching the ball.
Teach it in practice
Use two target gates at each end and rotate the deepest role after each round. Ask which teammate helps when possession changes.
Rotate the roles
Let players experience different starting positions over the season. Describe a role with one job in possession and one job after losing the ball. Avoid labeling a young player as only a defender or only a scorer.
Judge it by the game
- Can the player with the ball see a useful passing option?
- Can the team protect central space when possession changes?
- Are the players close enough to help one another?
- Does a different starting shape solve a real problem for this group?
KEEP IT SIMPLEMove to help the play, not to stand on your starting spot.
Practical suggestions to adapt to your players. This resource has not received independent coach or referee review. How our content is prepared.