11v5 Rondo – Common Problems & Solutions

Below are the most common problems you will likely face along with solutions in terms of coaching points and advice for your players. If you encounter other problems, please post details in the comments on this page and your issue will be addressed.

11v5 Rondo:

Problem: The ball gets intercepted too often and the team can’t build possession

Solution: Just like with the 8v3 rondo, this is also very much a positional rondo and players should try and hold their positions, especially when the size of the space is small. In order to keep possession and circulate the ball quickly, encourage your players hold their positions and play short, firm passes rather than longer passes that might be intercepted. You can reduce the number of players on the defensive team to make it easier to keep possession; a minimum of three is advised but you can reduce it to two or even one defending player if your team are still really struggling to keep the ball.

Problem: The defending team are not motivated to win back possession

Solution: Again, as with the 8v3 rondo, add mini goals at each end of the rectangle. When the defending team win possession, they can look to score on the goals and this adds an element of motivation, while also forcing the other team to transition quickly to defend the goals.

Problem: Play is congested and keeping possession is difficult after just a few passes

Solution: Encourage your wide players (full backs and forwards) to get as wide as possible so that the space is made bigger. If it’s still too difficult, increase the size of the space and this will give the team in possession more time and less pressure, so keeping the ball should be easier.