Functional - Crossing and Finishing
Exercise Description:
Set up on half a field as shown above.
If there is a need to involve higher numbers, use two
goals.
1. Play starts with a combination of the four central players around three mannequins. Play should
be one touch and ends with a pass out wide to the advancing wide player.
2. After the pass wide, the four central players make runs into the box. Front post, back post, penalty spot and the edge of the 18. The opposite wide player can also join in on the attack.
3. The wide player then crosses the ball into the box for a first-time finish by one of the advancing runners. The cross must be placed into a second six-yard box.
4. Progress the practice to include different types of crosses: pull-backs, back-post lofts, front-post drives, and flashes across the six-yard box.
Progress also includes different combinations in the central area.
Coaching points:
Realistic passing
Quality of movement into the box - explode into areas on the delivery
The delivery of the cross (second 6-yard box)
Intended outcome:
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Fun - Players love crossing and finishing sessions.
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Work on movement from the attacking four players.
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The players understand to run into areas the 18 and then the player crossing the ball can choose that area knowing a teammate will be there.
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Improve the Goalkeeper's confidence in dealing with crosses.
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Improve the speed of the attack.
Variations:
Add a defender or two.
The midfielder passes to the wide players feet and the full-back overlaps
Possible Performance Problems:
Players are not grasping the movement into the 18.
The timing of the runs. Players may get there too early.
Attack the second 6-yard area.
Lack of quality on the cross.
Be ready to focus - Think of your movement
Visualize playing in a game.
Coach your teammates
Communicate
Applaud good play
Be ready to pass or receive the ball
Reactions
Be willing to move into the 18
Work at game speed
Quality of the pass and first touch
Pass with purpose
Body shape
Shot at goal