Here is something to consider about the small-sided game:
- A smaller field means frequent touches and a quicker pace
As simple and straightforward as this point may seem, what this means for players that exclusively play 11-a-side is that you need to adapt your playing style to the smaller field.
During an 11-a-side game, it is not uncommon for a player to have infrequent touches of the ball. However, with the small-sided game, the smaller field forces players to come into contact with the ball more often. In addition, there is less space between you and your opponent and it takes less time to reach your opponents goal. Players therefore need to maintain not only their level of focus but also their intensity. The small-sided game requires quicker passing, quicker decision making and less dribbling or holding on to the ball. A coach’s advice to play with your chin up is absolutely crucial in order to circulate the ball and avoid losing possession to your opponent.
Here are a few links to soccer leagues in Quebec where you can play the small-sided game:
Totalcampo: www.totalcampo.com
Quebec Recreational Soccer League: www.qrsl.ca
Quebec Calcetto Soccer League: www.soccerhotnews.com
Continental Elite League: www.soccerplexecatalogna.com
La Ligue A: http://www.ligamontreal.com/
So remember: Keep your chin up, stay focused and make quick decisions, quick passes and try not to hold on to the ball for too long.
In our next blog, we will be discussing the different playing surfaces of the small-sided game and what this means for when considering which soccer shoes to wear.
The Passion Soccer Team
