Close-range finishing

1. One player from each team enters the area to play 1v1

2. Players can only shoot from within the end zone

3. Their opponent is not allowed into the end zone to defend

    

Practice 2

Set up

Set up an area relative to the age, number and ability of your players. You can use the same space from the first practice, but now with just one mini goal at each end and no end zones. 

Players who aren’t active on the pitch are ‘bumpers’ next to the goal that their team is attacking.

How to play

One player from each team enters the area to play 1v1. Players can use their team-mates (‘bumpers’) to pass to. Once a goal has been scored or the ball is out of play, two new players enter the area.

Progressions

Use a 2v2 in the middle, with one ‘bumper’ player for each team on the outside. You can also limit touches for the ’bumpers’.

Coaching points

This practice adds combination play with team-mates, decision-making and how to run off the ball to get in a position to finish.

1. One player from each team enters the area to play 1v1

2. Players not currently active in the practice act as ’bumpers’ either side of the goal their team is attacking

3. Players in the 1v1 can use their team’s ’bumpers’ to pass to

Practice 3

Set up

Set up the area using a third of the pitch, including the penalty box and a full-size goal. You will need a goalkeeper and players at seven around the area.

How to play

Set up with three different shooting scenarios. Players rotate each time they pass/shoot.

1. Player A passes to player C, who moves into the box and shoots.
2. Player B passes to player G. Player F makes an overlapping run and receives a pass from player G. Players G and D run into the box, to attack a cross from player F.
3. Player A passes to player E, who plays a give-and-go with either player D or F. Player E shoots. 

The pressure on the players now comes mostly from the time limits set - how many goals can they score in two minutes? How about one minute?

Progressions

You can add a defender or two to the practice.

Coaching points

Players should look up and pick a spot for the shot, based on the goalkeeper’s position, and try to take an early shot before the keeper is set.

Follow in in case the goalkeeper spills the ball. Different shot types can be used, depending on the angle, distance and goalkeeper’s position - laces, instep, outside of boot, lobbed, chipped, curled and so on.

1. Black lines: Player A passes to Player C, who drives into the box to shoot

2. Red lines: Player B passes to Player G, while F makes an overlapping run to receive and cross. Players G and D attack the cross

3. Yellow lines: Player A passes to Player E. They play a one-two with either Player D or F. Player E shoots