Practice 3: Crossing to create scoring opportunities

WHY USE IT

This final practice focuses on a specific area of the pitch, which in turn encourages the players to play within the wide areas, from which they can deliver a cross and produce goalscoring opportunities.

SET UP

Set up an area relevant for the needs of your players. Split it into two sections, with a channel running down the side. These act just as guidelines for players. Set up a goal at one end, off centre. There is an additional target area at the opposite end, with two servers positioned within it. If possible, use half a pitch with a section being cut off, just to one side of a goalpost.

HOW TO PLAY

Play a normal game, but, with the goal placed to one side, the attacking team are encouraged to play in the opposite side of the area, within the channel, where there is more space. The defending team look to protect the goal. If the defending team wins possession, they win a point by getting the ball into the target area or by passing into one of the servers.

Coaching points

Weight and area of pass into wide player. Choice of cross chosen by wide player and area in which they deliver it. Timing and area of run by attacking players to get to cross.