Whether you’re just starting out or have played more 5-a-side games than you can count, there’s always room to improve. And the good news? You don’t need to be a pro to play smarter, have more fun, and win more games. Booking a good 5-a-side pitch hire in Dublin is the first step — but what you do with that time on the pitch is what really counts.
Here are our top tips to help you sharpen your game next time you hit the Astro.
Play With Your Head, Not Just Your Feet
5-a-side is a sport that is suitable for all ages, which is part of what makes it so popular around Dublin. Whether you’re a teenager with endless energy or someone returning to the game after a few years off, the key to improving isn’t just physical — it’s mental. The game is quick, intense, and can catch you out if you’re not thinking a few steps ahead. Instead of running yourself into the ground, focus on smart movement, good positioning, and creating space. Book your 5-a-side pitch hire in Dublin with a purpose — not just to play, but to play smarter.
Talk to Each Other
Communication is what separates a group of lads having a casual kickabout from a team that actually wins games. A quick “man on!” or “back post!” can save a goal or create a chance in a split second. The smaller the pitch, the more important it is to stay connected — there’s no time for guesswork. Keep talking throughout the match — it helps with positioning, defending, and keeping track of time. It is important to talk! If someone needs cover, support, or just a bit of encouragement after a missed shot, don’t be afraid to speak up. It’s these little moments of connection that turn a team into a unit.
Organisation
One common mistake newcomers make when playing 5-a-side is thinking that no organisation is needed. This is especially true when they are used to the 11-a-side game where formations are more rigid, and organisation is the key to this.
But all good 5-a-side teams know organisation still matters in the smaller game. Positional play isn’t as strict as in 11-a-side, but it’s key when the opposition is breaking or when you need to react fast to a quick free-kick.
Off the pitch, organisation counts too! Knowing your opponent’s strengths and weaknesses helps you plan better. Identifying the dangermen and the weak links in the opposing team gives you a big advantage.
Stay Organised – Even in a Small Space
It’s tempting to think that 5-a-side doesn’t need much structure — after all, each team only has five players. But without some basic organisation, you’ll be caught out again and again. Assign roles before kick-off: decide who stays back, who presses, and who’s marking on set pieces. Even things like short corners or defending a quick free-kick need a bit of planning. Teams that take their 5-a-side pitch sessions seriously often show up with a plan — and it shows on the scoreboard.
Don’t Dive In
Sliding tackles might look cool on TV, but in 5-a-side they can often cause more problems than they solve. Because the pitch is smaller and teams have fewer players, if you miss a tackle, you could leave your team short at the back. Instead, try to stay on your feet, gently steer the opponent away from goal, and use your body to block passing lanes. It’s all about being patient and keeping things under control — the more composed your defending, the harder it will be for the other team to score.
Defend as a Team, Not as Individuals
In 5-a-side football, everyone needs to pull their weight defensively — yes, even your striker. The best teams work as a unit, dropping back together and staying compact as soon as possession is lost. When one player switches off, gaps appear, and the opposition can exploit them quickly. That team spirit, that sense of looking out for each other, is what turns a group of mates into a proper squad.
And just like a team needs organisation on the pitch, choosing the right place for your 5-a-side pitch hire matters too. Picking a quality facility like Astropark means you get more than just a pitch — you get the space and conditions that help your team gel and perform better. A good pitch, with great surface and lighting, gives your team the best chance to play cohesive football and really enjoy those sessions together, whether you’re in it for serious competition or just the craic.
Enjoy It — That’s the Whole Point
At the end of the day, football is about having a laugh with your mates, staying active, and blowing off steam. Sure, winning is great, and improving is part of the fun — but don’t forget why you started playing in the first place. The banter, the close games, the post-match chats — that’s what it’s really about. And when you’re playing on a top-quality pitch with good lighting and proper facilities, the whole experience is just better.
Book Your Next Game at Astropark
If you’re ready to take your next match seriously — or just want to enjoy a great session with friends — We offer some of the best pitches in Dublin for your next 5-a-side game. Our all-weather surfaces, excellent locations, and flexible booking options make it simple to get your team together and hit the ground running.
Choosing Astropark means playing on quality pitches designed to help you perform at your best, no matter the weather. So, whether it’s competitive football or just a fun kickabout, we’ve got the perfect spot for you.
Check availability or get in touch to book your slot. See you on the pitch!
