A grassroots football coaching publication

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

Lose it, find home

Recover together when possession changes. The closest player slows the attack while teammates recover to protect the middle.

Fig. 4 · Lose it, find home7v7 · 2-3-1
The ball has changed hands. We have players ahead of it, so we need to recover together.The opposition has taken possession in the middle of the pitch. Our wide players are still high and wide, while 8 is nearest to the ball. Two defenders and the goalkeeper remain behind.GK3211879BALL LOST

The ball has changed hands. We have players ahead of it, so we need to recover together.

8 slows the next attack. 11 and 7 move back towards the middle while 3 and 2 protect our goal.The opponent still has the ball near the middle. 8 is close enough to delay, both wide midfielders have come nearer the centre, and two defenders remain behind them so the team can recover together.11789GK3211879RECOVER

8 slows the next attack. 11 and 7 move back towards the middle while 3 and 2 protect our goal.

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

Say it on the touchline

Who slows them? Where do I help?

You don't all have to win the ball. Give the team time to get organised.

✓ 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. The nearest player slows the opposition if it's safe to do so.
  2. Both wide midfielders recover to help the team get connected.
  3. The defender pair protects the route to our goal.

Positions that use this rule

  1. 3 · 2The two defendersGive options. Protect together.
  2. 8Central midfielderConnect the team
  3. 11 · 7Wide midfieldersWide with it. Closer without.
  4. 9StrikerGive us somewhere to play