Kickabout with possession - Run the clock

Kickabout with possession passing game to run the clock

This kickabout passing game helps adult amateur teams practise protecting a lead with possession instead of dropping too deep. Each round starts as a normal game, but once the first goal is scored, the clock begins and the scoring team must manage the remaining time with controlled passing.

Setup

Set up the kickabout as a normal football match, adjusting the playing area to match the number of players at training.

Use a full-size field with regular-size goals if you have 18 or more players. Use half a field or a 7-a-side field with smaller goals if you have fewer players.

Divide the players into two teams. Play with goalkeepers and goals as you would in a regular game.

Equipment Needed

Rules & Instructions

Run the game as a normal match with one possession constraint.

  • Divide players into two teams.
  • Start play as normal.
  • Use standard rules while scores are level.
  • Let both teams shoot while scores are level.
  • Start a 5-minute clock after the first goal.
  • After a goal, the scoring team restarts.
  • The winning team must complete an agreed number of passes before shooting.
  • Use 20 passes for full-field games with 18 or more players.
  • Use 10 passes for smaller-sided games.
  • Apply the passes rule whenever the winning team has the ball.
  • The losing team can press, win the ball, and shoot immediately.
  • Restart the winning team’s pass count whenever the losing team wins it.
  • The team ahead when the clock ends wins the round.
  • Play best of 7 rounds.
  • The first team to win 4 rounds wins the game.

Coaching Tips

  • Encourage the winning team to stay calm after scoring.
  • Demand simple support angles around the player on the ball.
  • Remind players to move the ball away from pressure instead of forcing passes.
  • Coach the first touch so players can pass again quickly.
  • Ask players off the ball to create clear passing lanes.
  • Encourage the losing team to press together instead of chasing alone.
  • Stop play briefly if the winning team becomes too passive.
  • Reinforce patience, but still encourage players to attack when opening appears.

Why It Works for Adult Amateur Teams

Adult amateur teams often lose control after scoring because players keep chasing the next goal or drop too deep too early. This game creates repeated moments where a team must protect a lead with possession, not panic clearances or passive defending.

The 5-minute clock after the first goal makes the pressure feel realistic. The team ahead has to manage the ball, support the player in possession, and choose when to keep it simple or attack again. The chasing team also gets a clear role: press together, force mistakes, and attack quickly after regaining the ball.

The best-of-7 format gives both teams several chances to practise the same match situation. Coaches can quickly see who stays calm, who hides from the ball, who forces passes, and who understands how to control the tempo after scoring.

Key Outcomes:

  • Better possession after scoring
  • Calmer passing under pressure
  • Smarter game management
  • Improved support around the ball
  • More urgent pressing from the chasing team

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