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The Possession Through Midfield system is an elite tactical framework designed to improve link-up play and support transitions from the defensive third to the final third. Originally developed for the Estonia Women’s National Team by renowned coach Keith Boanas, this methodology focuses on creating numerical superiorities and identifying the “third man” to break defensive lines. In this 1,000-word guide, we deconstruct the professional drills within the Possession Through Midfield manual to help coaches build a fluid, attacking side.
1. The Core Philosophy of Link-Up Play
At the heart of Possession Through Midfield is the objective of moving the ball through the central zones with purpose. Unlike direct play, this system relies on “Micro Teach” principles, where players learn to recognize passing lanes and body orientation before the ball even arrives.
In the Possession Through Midfield model, success is defined by:
- Numerical Superiority: Creating 5+GK vs 3 situations in the defensive third to ensure a clean build-up.
- Controlled Progression: Ensuring the ball reaches the middle zone (2v2) before being released to the attackers.
2. The Micro Teach: Handball Introduction
A unique aspect of the Possession Through Midfield session is the “Handball Game.” Conducted in a $20 \times 30$m area, this drill simplifies the rules of movement and spatial awareness. By using hands instead of feet, players can focus entirely on “Forward Runs” and “Support Communication” without the technical burden of ball control.
3. Creating Space in the Middle Zone
The Possession Through Midfield methodology emphasizes that the middle zone is the engine room. In a 2v2 setup, players must use “Receiving Body Shape” to protect the ball. The coach emphasizes “Head Up” play to identify the movement of the three strikers in the final third.
Key coaching points in this phase of Possession Through Midfield include:
- First Touch: Always taking the ball away from pressure.
- Decision Making: Knowing when to carry the ball and when to pass.
4. The “Third Man” Concept and Full Back Integration
A professional progression in the Possession Through Midfield manual is the integration of the Full Back as the “Third Player.” As the ball is played through midfield, the Full Back recognizes the opportunity to move into space, providing a vital option to “Switch Play.”
In the Possession Through Midfield system:
- The player on the ball attracts defenders.
- The Full Back provides the overlap or the diagonal outlet.
- This creates an overload that unbalances the opposition’s defensive structure.
5. Transitioning to the Final Third
Once the ball enters the final third in a Possession Through Midfield session, all players are “released” to react as in a normal game. The goal is to play into the strikers’ feet, who then quickly combine to score. This transition from structured possession to “End Product” (Shot on Goal) is what separates elite teams from average ones.
6. Movement Without the Ball
The Possession Through Midfield diagrams highlight “Player Movement Without the Ball” as a critical factor. Dynamic runs draw defenders out of position, creating gaps for midfielders to exploit. According to UEFA Tactical Analysis, off-the-ball movement accounts for 90% of a successful attacking phase.
7. Support and Communication
Effective Possession Through Midfield requires constant verbal and visual cues. “Support-Communication” ensures that the player with the ball always has at least two passing options (one short, one long). This diamond or triangle support structure is a hallmark of FIFA’s modern coaching standards.
8. Game-Related Scenarios: From 5v3 to 11v11
The final stage of the Possession Through Midfield session involves transferring the small-sided principles to a full field. By marking the field into thirds, coaches can monitor if the “Link-Up Play” remains consistent under the physical demands of a full-sized pitch.
Why Coaches Should Implement Possession Through Midfield
Implementing the Possession Through Midfield system allows your team to control the tempo of the game. By following the “Key Coaching Points” from Keith Boanas, your players will:
- Improve their Receiving Body Shape.
- Master the Forward Runs (with and without the ball).
- Develop a clinical End Product in the final third.
To track the effectiveness of your team’s possession, you can use analytical tools like SofaScore or The Analyst to measure passing accuracy in the opposition half.
Conclusion: Achieving Midfield Dominance
The Possession Through Midfield manual is a masterclass in attacking synchronization. From the initial “Handball Micro Teach” to the complex “Full Back Progression,” every step is designed to build a team that is comfortable on the ball and lethal in transition.
Whether you are managing a youth squad or a national team, the principles of Possession Through Midfield will provide the tactical edge needed to dominate possession and secure victories.