Practice 2: Long-range finishing

WHY USE IT

This practice gives the players lots of repetition of long-range finishing.

SET UP

Split a small pitch into thirds. The middle third is smaller than the two end thirds and the corners are removed so that it becomes an octagon in shape. An odd number of balls are lined up in the middle third. Split the players into two teams, then divide them between the two end thirds. In this example, there are three attacking players in each end third, alongside two opposition defenders.

HOW TO PLAY

A player from each attacking team collects a ball from the centre and their team aims to score. As soon as a team scores, or the ball goes out of play, the attacking team collects another ball. If the defenders win the ball, they must dribble it out. The practice continues until all the balls have been taken from the middle third. The team with the most points wins.

COACHING POINTS

• Just before you receive the ball, scan to see if you are in a position to have an attempt on goal.

• If you can’t shoot first time, make sure your first touch allows your second touch to be a shot.

• Select your shot type and perform the technique correctly.

• If you can’t shoot, can you get the ball to a team-mate who can?