Difference in training load and technical actions during small-sided games in junior and senior soccer players

Purpose
The aim of the study was to analyse the differences in junior and senior soccer players during small-sided games (SSGs). Physiological responses (heart rate, rating of perceived exertion [RPE]), time-motion variables (acceleration sum, distance covered), and technical actions (dribbles, passes, tackles, interceptions, shots) were measured and compared between the different age groups and across the games.

Methods
The total of 14 junior players (aged 17.6 ± 0.5 years) and 11 senior players (18.7 ± 1.1 years) participated in the study. All participants performed 4 × 4-minute 5 versus 5 SSGs with 1-minute passive rest and 1-minute active rest. Goalkeepers and coach encouragement were included.

Results
No differences in physiological responses or time-motion variables were found between junior and senior players. Physiological responses did not change across the games except for the RPE (F(3,51) = 26.57, p < 0.001), which increased with fatigue. The number of technical actions was the same for junior and senior players and did not change across the games. Additionally, a high correlation was found between acceleration sum and total distance (r = 0.81).

Conclusions
It was concluded that no differences existed in physiological responses or technical actions between junior and senior players for this specific soccer club.