4v3 Wave Build-Up — Progress and Recycle
Repeated build-up actions in waves: progress forward when possible, or recycle possession and rebuild when blocked. Four attackers build against three active defenders in a bidirectional wave pattern — after successful progression to Zone B, the team reforms and builds back toward the opposite side. Continuous A → B → A → B wave pattern.
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Organization
Four attackers build against three active defenders. Start in Zone A. Attackers assess: can we break forward now, or must we recycle and move pressure first? If forward route is open, progress into Zone B. If route is blocked, recycle possession, change angle, rebuild. After successful progression, the action resets as a new wave — the attacking team now builds toward the opposite direction. Defenders remain active throughout. Continuous wave pattern: A → B → A → B.
Coaching Points
Scan before receiving. Recognise when progression is available. Do not force forward pass. Recycle quickly if central route closes. Change angle after recycling. Maintain width and depth. Move immediately after pass. Support below and beyond the ball. Accelerate after breaking line. Reorganise immediately for next wave.
Progressions
- Smaller area
- Two-touch limit
- Defenders press immediately after restart
- Progression must occur within 8 seconds
- Double score for central line break
- Defenders score by winning and carrying out
Regressions
- Larger area
- Passive first defensive action
- Unlimited touches
- Wider progression zones
- Free first pass after each new wave
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