A grassroots football coaching publication

7v7 · Issue 01 · Chapter 2 · Principle one of four

Give two options

Help our goalkeeper start play without forcing a pass. The two defenders spread out to offer clear passes; 8 can support ahead.

Fig. 1 · Give two options7v7 · 2-3-1
Both defenders come too close together. The goalkeeper has fewer clear passing angles.GK has the ball. Defenders 3 and 2 have crowded close to the centre rather than offering two separated passes. The space outside them is not being used.GK3281179NO WIDTH

✕ WrongBoth defenders come too close together. The goalkeeper has fewer clear passing angles.

3 and 2 split to offer safe passing angles. 8 stays available ahead. Look short if it is on.GK has possession and both defenders split into the spaces either side. Number 8 remains between the lines to offer a possible next pass. Pass arrows show possible options, not compulsory passes.32GK3281179OPTIONOPTION

3 and 2 split to offer safe passing angles. 8 stays available ahead. Look short if it is on.

How We Play illustration based on reviewed guidance. Pictures show ideas, not fixed moves.
Key
  • Us
  • Ball
  • Gap
  • Run
  • Pass
  • Started here
  • Key space

Say it on the touchline

Can our keeper see two choices?

Look short when it is safe. If it isn't on, don't force it.

✓ Coaching reviewed · 22 October 2026

Written by Niall Walsh, grassroots football coach and founder of How We Play. Coaching reviewed by David Wilson on 22 October 2026.

What to look for

  1. 3 and 2 separate to offer the goalkeeper passing angles.
  2. 8 stays available ahead as a potential next pass, rather than hiding behind an opponent.
  3. If no safe short pass is available, players aren't forced into one.

Positions that use this rule

  1. GKGoalkeeperStart us playing
  2. 3 · 2The two defendersGive options. Protect together.
  3. 8Central midfielderConnect the team