3v3 Plus Keepers to Full-Size Goals
Two teams of three go at full-size goals with a keeper in each — and quick restarts keep the game running through 3-to-5-minute rounds.
Small-group attacking and defending, finishing under pressure, and keeper distribution — game-like conditions in a compact space that force quick decisions and dynamic play.
Starting at Core — your team is set to mixed.
20 min tonight · Two teams of 3, plus 2 keepers (3v3)
- Ages 9+
- Two teams of 3, plus 2 keepers (3v3)
- 20 min as the drill is written
- Cones, pinnies, balls, 2 full-size goals
Grab Cones, pinnies in two colors, multiple balls, and your two full-size goals — a rebounder, practice sticks, cones, or two wide mini-goals stand in if you're short.
Build Build a field 40 yards long by 30 wide with a full-size goal on each end line.
Place A keeper in each goal, three field players per team, and the ball supply with the keepers or with you.
- 1
Organize the players
Split into two teams of three, put a keeper in each goal, and stock the keepers — or yourself — with multiple balls.
“Three on three, keepers in. The balls live with the keepers — this game doesn't stop.”
- 2
Show the jobs
Walk the restarts — the keeper starts play any time the ball goes over the end line or a goal is scored; a ball over the sideline restarts with a kick-in or throw-in.
“Over the end line, the keeper plays it out. Over the side, kick it in or throw it in — fast.”
- 3
Play
Keep play continuous and the restarts quick to hold the intensity. Watch for fast counterattacks after winning the ball, accuracy and composure in front of goal, defenders communicating and covering space as a unit, off-the-ball movement creating passing lanes and chances, and keepers playing quick, accurate restarts.
“Won it? Go — counter right now! And keep talking back there!”
Look for The counterattack — the moment a team wins the ball, do they break fast for goal?
- 4
Switch and repeat
Play 3-to-5-minute rounds, then rotate teams or keepers as needed. For later rounds, limit field players to two touches, create bonus scoring zones inside the box, give a team a fourth attacker for 30 seconds after they score, or require weak-foot finishes.
“Round's over — new keepers! This round you get two touches — make them count.”
If play keeps dying, restart instantly — that's why the balls live with the keepers. The intensity is in the quick restart.
Go deeper · 2 notes
Why it works
A compact 40-by-30 space with real goals and keepers simulates game conditions — frequent touches, shots, and decision-making opportunities in an engaging, competitive format — and continuous play with quick restarts keeps the intensity up the whole round.
What they learn
Small-group attacking and defending — quick transitions and counterattacks, finishing with accuracy and composure, defending and communicating as a unit, off-the-ball support play, and goalkeeper distribution.
Where does this come from?
SoccerXpert — their published drill library.
A published drill library. Useful and widely used, but not a governing body — so it fills gaps rather than leading.