Scoring from crosses

WHY USE IT

Provides players with an opportunity to practice their finishing from crosses, i.e. first time from close range.

SET UP

Mark out a rectangular area, relative to the age, number and ability of your players. Split it in half to create two long channels. Position two normal goals either side of the area, approximately six yards from the edge. Split players into four pairs; two of the pairs act as servers, positioned at the end of the area, another pair are the goalkeepers and the final pair are the strikers.

HOW TO PLAY

The strikers start in separate halves of the area and then run into the half where their partner was originally positioned. As they do this, a server plays a pass (a cross) into them and the striker attempts to score with a one-touch finish. Once they have done this, they run back into the other half to receive a pass/cross from another server. They continue to do this until all the balls have been used and then another pair become the strikers.

Coaching points

• How can you time your movement to meet the cross at the right time?
• Can you guide the ball into a specific area of the goal?
• Can you ensure the part of your body you are going to use is pointed towards the area of the goal you want the ball to go?