Crosses and rebounds

WHY USE IT

Rebounds from crosses are plentiful in youth games, and attackers need to be alert to follow up and score. The focus of this practice is the wide areas and creating space in the packed area in front of the goal.

SET UP

Set up an area wider than it is long, relative to the age and ability of your players, with a goal at each wide end and a wing zone on each side. You need three teams and two goalkeepers, as well as balls, bibs and cones.

HOW TO PLAY

We have used three teams of four, plus the two goalkeepers. Two teams play 4v4 in the main area. A neutral team is on the outside of the area, with a player on each side and a player next to each goal. The attacking team must use the wide players during the attack. If they also use the player next to the goal, a resulting goal counts as double. The coach starts and restarts play by passing the ball into the middle. It is the first to three goals; the losing team switches roles with the neutral team.

COACHING POINTS

• We want players in the centre to think about the timing of their runs and the opportunities to play one-twos to create a rebound finish, and those on the wings to think about the timing and accuracy of their crossing.