New Scorer: Goals Only Count for First-Timers

5v5 games where a goal only counts if the scorer hasn't scored yet. It forces teams to involve their quieter players and share the spotlight.

How to play

1. Three 25 x 15 m fields with small goals; teams of 5 in pinnies (3 min).
2. Explain the rule: each goal is recorded with the scorer's name; repeat scorers don't count (2 min).
3. First game, 8 minutes; teams decide how to create chances for those who haven't scored (8 min).
4. Tactical timeout: each team discusses what worked to get new scorers (3 min).
5. Second 8-minute game against another team; once everyone has scored, the list resets (8 min).
6. Debrief: how did this rule change the way you played? (6 min).

Rules

• A goal counts only if the scorer hasn't scored yet this round.
• No goalkeepers; no defending inside the 2 m cone zone.
• No contact: tackles only for the ball and from the front.
• Kick-ins along the ground instead of throw-ins.

Variations

Adaptations

• Visual impairment: plays with a bell ball and a teammate calls the goal's location when the student receives.
• Limited mobility: may score by throwing from inside the zone, and no one defends that throw.
• Knee injury: is the scorekeeper with the name list, switching in for game two if able.

Learning goals

• Find the teammate who has been least involved.
• Create shooting chances for others.
• Shoot accurately at a small goal.

Equipment for a class of 25

• soccer balls: 3
• cones: 16
• pinnies: 15
• small goals: 6

Teacher tip

Give each field a clipboard with team names. At first teams "stage" the goal artificially; that's fine, they soon learn to create a real advantage.

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