Learning Activity

Three Goal Game

This game focuses on attacking, counterattacking and also defense. It primarily looks at
small sided gameplay.

Organisation/ Layout

1, 2
or 3!

Organisation/ Description
Firstly set out a triangular area, approximately 10m x 10m x 10m.
In each corner place equal sized goal zones, through use of cones etc.
Then group pupils into random teams of three. Within these groups of three pupils should
number each other 1,2 and 3. They must ensure they remember their individual numbers.
There should be 9 pupils (3 teams of three) per triangle area. If possible ensure each team of
three is in matching colour bibs (three coloured teams per triangle)
One ball will be placed centrally in the middle of the triangle.
Each team must start behind their goal area.
Once all pupils are set-up ready the teacher will call either 1,2 or 3 (if there are non-doers, these
can assist individual groups and number call) and the corresponding player will need to enter
the area to try and win the ball, once a pupil is in possession they must then try and score in
opposing goals (not their own)
Once a goal has been scored by any on player, the ball is reset and a new number is called.
This can progress onto 2 vs 2 or 3 vs 3 or indeed a variation of all 3 options if time and space
allows, for example the teacher may call numbers 1 and 3, then proceed to call number 2 ,30
seconds later.

Meeting the needs of all learners

All:
May have larger goal areas.
Less able pupils may have a few seconds head start to gain possession of the ball.
Defenders may have to be a set distance from goal when defending it (e.g. 2
metres)
More able pupils may need a set number of touches on the ball before they can
shoot for goal.
Safe Zone areas may be put into play for struggling areas (for example a 2 x 2m
spot box) where no defenders may enter if they are within it with possession of
the ball.
May be able to score in all three goals.
Some:
May have smaller goal zones.
May have to make a set number of touches before taking a shot.
May have to take a shot from a set distance from the goal (e.g. no closer than 2/3
metres)
Goals may get smaller with each successful goal.

Differentiation

Size of goals may be increased or decreased according to ability.

Different sizes of football may be used.
Teams may be limited to only scoring in one goal/ certain colours each time.
A certain number of touches on the ball may be required.
If playing 2 vs 2 or 3 vs 3 a certain number of passes may have to be made
before a shot on the goal.
Defenders may only defend the goal from a set distance (e.g. 2 metres away).
Attackers may only attack the goal from a set distance (e.g. 2 metres away)
Safe zones may be added into the central area, where defensive players
cannot enter if the attacking team is within it and in possession of the ball.
If each team has an extra player they may float on the outside to receive and
send the ball but cannot personally attack the goal.