The Benifits of Small Sided Play in Small Spaces    

Wednesday, August 12, 2009 3:52 PM

We thought some of you might have questions about 5v5 in general and/or about the field size (40x20yards) at the PSC Kick Fest so we put together some thoughts for you.

HOW DOES SMALL SIDED PLAY (5v5) ON A SMALL FIELD PROMOTE BETTER TECHNIQUE?
Just watch your players fight to keep the ball from crossing the touch line and you'll immediately begin to see how smaller fields develop skill, control, and technique. A small field puts players constantly under pressure from other players and out-of-play boundaries. Players must learn to settle the ball rapidly, chop sharply, shield effectively, pass quickly and move into space.  AND every player gets tons of touches giving them more opportunities to develop/sharpen thier skills.  Our small fields also provide more decision making opportunities and high pressure situations than the 5v5 on a spacious field.

At the PSC 5-a-Side KickFest, the emphasis is clearly on control and technique. Without control and technique you cannot expect to succeed in soccer. Compared to large field soccer, 5v5 places a greater premium on ball control. There is no reward for errant passes because the other team gets the ball. There is no reward for errant shots because the other team gets the ball. There is no incentive to 'kick and run' because the field is too small and packed with players. Players with the ball must use proper technique to maintain control and must seek out other players in space. Players without the ball must move to space and must truly support their teammates.

IS 5v5 AS MUCH FUN AS "REAL SOCCER"?
Absolutely. If you like outdoor soccer, you'll love 5v5. It is fast paced and exciting. With the field being so small, scoring chances abound and games are often high scoring affairs with many different players scoring goals.  On a larger field shooting opportunities are limited but in 5v5, everyone gets a look at the goal.  All players participate in both the attack and defense, keeping them more engaged and active... and its SUPER FUN to wacth! 

Hope you enjoy the first PSC 5-a-Side Kick Fest,

3D Sports & Portsmouth Soccer Club