In this section we have used Coaches Chalkboard to design a drill to improve the forwards technique and attitude with regards to close range finishing techniques and quick combination play. Below are links to animated drills that also demonstrate these skills, which are so vital for forwards:

• 3 v 3 finishing drill - to develop quick interplay and a positive attitude to finishing
• 6 v 3 finishing drill - overload drill which provides plenty of shooting opportunities
• Quick forward interplay - drill designed to improve quick interplay between forwards
• Dribble and shoot - designed to improve the ability to dribble quickly and finish in and around the area
• Turn and shoot - Improve forwards ability to turn quickly and shoot accurately

NAME

Drill to improve close range shooting and combination play

DESCRIPTION

Initially play 2 attackers V 2 defenders. Attackers must create space to receive the ball from servers and display a positive attitude to beat the defender and finish, or combine with fellow attacker to create a goal scoring opportunity.

PURPOSE

To develop individual turning, dribbling and finishing skills as well as quick interplay between the attackers to create goal scoring opportunities.

ORGANISATION

• 20 meters wide x 30 meters depth.
• Full size goal
• 2 x attackers v 2 x defenders + goalkeeper
• 3 x servers
• Supply of balls
• Bibs

START

S1 passes to S2 or S3 who pass into one of the attackers. Attackers create space to receive the ball on the half turn.

KEY FACTORS

• Attackers to create space to receive the ball on the half turn, where they can see the other attackers, the goal and the ball.
• Positive attitude to shooting
• Attacker to make an early decision on the half turn: Shooting round defenders: Beating the defender and shooting: Shooting on first touch: being inventive and clever.

KEY FACTORS

Attacker looks to beat defender and shoot. Other attacker pulls away from ball to create a quick 1 v 1 situation.

KEY FACTORS

Attackers make a cross over run, to find space to receive the ball and look for a first time shot.

KEY FACTORS

Players look to combine with quick interplay. First forward pushes deep against the defender to shield the ball and become a target. Second forward checks away from the target player, spins and looks to support the pass into the target forward. Second forward should dictate with voice and body language where they want the lay off to be. Positive attitude to get to the ball first and shoot accurately. Both forwards are aware of rebound opportunities.

KEY FACTORS

Forwards use clever movement to create a zig zaw pattern with one in front of the other. First forward lets the ball run to second target player. First player spins and makes a checking run to receive the lay off pass from target player. First player dictates the timing of the pass with voice and body signals.

PROGRESSIONS

• One of the servers can join in to create a 3 v 2 situation.
• Play 3 v 3 with one of the servers joining in to make a 4 v 3.