Demands and variability in free, restricted area, and positional role in small-sided games: effects of presentation order within sessions

Abstract

The aim of this study was to assess the effects of different tactical setups in small-sided games on perceptual and locomotor demands, and to evaluate the impact of session timing (beginning vs. end) on variability within and between conditions. Coaches should schedule free-play tasks early to reduce perceived effort and tactical drills later to increase intensity, fatigue, and variability.