Diamond Matrix

Manningham U12 2019

[9v9 Half Pitch with Offside]

System of Play : Quiz

[We have covered most of this to some degree or another as @ 28/2/19]

Not covered in training yet

1. Can you draw the Diamond Matrix (11-a-side) on a soccer picture? [not covered yet]

1. Can you explain what it all means? [not covered yet]
1. Red dots - players in a 1-4-3-3
2. Gey dots - key spaces used to get in behind
3. black lines are the passing lines
4. lines with arrows - where players can run with the ball if needed
2. What are the implications of this?
1. If you set up a strict 4-3-3 structure it becoimes very easy for players to find a passing option. Teams that set up like this will look very good in possession. The exercise of possession becomes a challenge to maintian the matrix. The exercise of penetration is about learning to use the key spaces. It is also quite strong defensively. This is why all young players are encouraged to develop in a 4-3-3.
2. However, it may fail to develop an intuitive intelligence and intuitive awareness. An awareness which is not based on rules but more on feeling the moment. This type of player is a rare bread and is often not actered for ina 4-3-3 system. Intuitiveness gets replaced by rules of play.
3. 10 years ago the visionary coaches played 4-3-3 when no one else did and in a way no one else did.
4. The challenge now for todays visionary coaches is maintain the need for a system (which offers so many learning opportunities) whislt also developing intuitive intelligence and awareness which transcends all systems.