4v4 Build-Up Drill in a Grid | Using Bounce Players

Overview

• Who it’s for: U12 through adult teams
• Numbers: 12 players (4v4 in the middle + 4 bounce players in the corners)
• Field size: 40m × 30m grid
• Time: 15–20 minutes

Objectives

• Speed up the tempo of your ball circulation
• Sharpen passing accuracy and quick decision-making
• Get players moving with real spacing — width and depth
• Teach them how to attack through the bounce players
• Learn build-up play that pulls the defense out of shape

Setup

A 4v4 inside the grid works the ball around using bounce players in the corners as teammates, sharpening quick circulation and the quality of their spacing. Because the attacking side always has a numbers-up edge (8v4), there are plenty of passing options, so you can really push decision-making and tempo.

1）Mark out a 40m × 30m grid with cones

2）Set up two teams of four for a 4v4 inside the grid

3）Put four bounce players in the four corners of the grid

4）The attacking team starts on the ball and can play into the grid or out to the corner players

5）Have the attacking team look to move the ball quickly from one corner around to the next

6）Rotate roles on a timer, or whenever the defense wins the ball