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4v4+2 Forward-Only Neutrals — Jokers Cannot Play Back

A possession game with two neutral players supporting the team in possession. The neutrals may receive from either team but cannot play the ball backward, forcing teammates to provide forward-facing options.

Encourage forward support and body orientation by restricting neutral players to forward or square passes only.
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Forward Only
Players
10
Duration
14 min
Equipment
Balls, Cones, Bibs
Difficulty
Advanced
Age group
U11–U18
Category
Possession
Type
Possession

Organization

Play 4v4 + 2 neutrals in a 28x22m rectangle. Place neutrals freely inside the area. Normal players can pass in any direction, but neutrals must play forward relative to the possession team's attacking direction or square if no forward option exists.

Coaching Points

Support ahead of the neutral before the pass arrives | Neutrals scan both shoulders | Do not use a neutral if all options are behind | Move immediately after playing into the joker | Keep width so forward lanes remain open

Progressions

  • Limit neutrals to one touch and change attacking direction after every turnover.

Regressions

  • Allow neutrals one backward pass before the forward-only rule applies.
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