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.
Set up · 3 actions · before the kids arrive
- 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.
Show me the setup picture
One thing to remember: 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.
How it runs — the whole game in one sentence
Two teams of three attack full-size goals — the keeper restarts anything over the end line, sideline balls come back with a kick-in or throw-in, and rounds run 3 to 5 minutes.
1Organize the players▾
Coach does
Split into two teams of three, put a keeper in each goal, and stock the keepers — or yourself — with multiple balls.
Coach says
Three on three, keepers in. The balls live with the keepers — this game doesn't stop.
2Show the jobs▾
Coach does
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.
Coach says
Over the end line, the keeper plays it out. Over the side, kick it in or throw it in — fast.
3Play▾
Coach does
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.
Coach says
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?
4Switch and repeat▾
Coach does
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.
Coach says
Round's over — new keepers! This round you get two touches — make them count.
If it's not working
If play keeps dying, restart instantly — that's why the balls live with the keepers. The intensity is in the quick restart.
Want to go deeper? Optional — not needed to run the game.
Why are we doing this?
What are they learning?
How can I change it?
Harder: Limit field players to two touches to increase the pace and decision speed.