Seven steps to perfect ball control

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Good players can bring the ball under their control in an instant - no matter how it arrives to them

.A good first touch… … gives a player TIME and SPACE to assess what to do next – i.e. pass, dribble or shoot … ensures a time-wasting second touch isn’t required to get the ball out of the feet … enables players to operate comfortably under pressure and in tight situations

Whereas a poor first touch…

… can take the momentum out of attacking play … might result in LOST POSSESSION

The two types of control

1. Cushion control – taking the ‘sting’ out of the ball by pulling back the controlling surface on impact. This has the effect of ‘cushioning’ or absorbing the pace of the ball so that it drops at the feet.

2. Wedge control – by making the controlling surface, say the sole or outside of the boot, more rigid, the ball is ‘wedged’ between it and the ground. This is used when a player wants to force the ball downwards or into space so they can move onto it.

The basics

Move into position to intercept the ball early.
Select the controlling surface early and place it in the ball’s path.
Stay balanced using the arms.
Watch the ball carefully to judge its direction and speed.
Keep the head steady.
Be relaxed.

What can you control it with? Anything!

Inside of the foot - Plant the supporting foot 45-90 degrees to the path of the ball. Control the ball with the arch of the free foot.
Outside of the foot - Used when the ball is travelling across in front of the player. Just reach forward into the ball’s path.
Sole of the foot - Raise the toes slightly above the heel. Used in dribbling for stopping before changing direction.
Instep - For when the ball’s falling from a steep angle. Stretch the ankle and cushion with the ‘laces’ by bending the knee and ankle on contact.
Thigh - Aim for about halfway up the top of the thigh, although the inside is good for stopping balls flying past.
Chest - May involve arching the back slightly, bending the knees and even jumping.
Head - Use the forehead, just below the hairline.

REMEMBER: GOOD SERVICE IS VITAL TO PRACTISING BALL CONTROL!

Step it up

Only when players have confidence in their technique should you move onto increasing the difficulty by having them practice:

Receiving balls from various angles, speeds and heights
An immediate pass with the second touch
Against defenders
Controlling a ball while moving at pace
Controlling the ball for a team-mate

Players will now have to think about:

The weight of their touch
Moving the ball away from opponents by redirecting it into available space
Checking passing possibilities while the ball is in flight.

Dave Clarke

Dave has excellent coaching credentials, having coached U9s - U16s at grassroots level for over 20 years. He holds a UEFA B license and is qualified in FA Youth Award modules 1, 2 and 3, as well as the Coerver Youth Diploma Module.

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Small-sided game: Turn on the switch

Use this small-sided game to create gaps in the defence by switching play and then making the killer pass

Practice: Turn on the switch

Use this three-part session to create gaps in the defence by switching play and then making the killer pass.

Practice 1: Through the thirds

This session develops players’ awareness and movement to build through defence and midfield.

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Experienced coach Ian Barker explores the elements of ’economical’ training.

Coaches Testimonials

Gerald Kearney, Downtown Las Vegas Soccer Club

"I have been coaching competitive soccer for over 20 years in Las Vegas. I feel like you are my personal club director. My players and myself have learned a lot from your sessions. The exercises from Soccer Coach Weekly are easy to understand and implement. I never run out of ideas and there is always an exercise for whatever problem we need to fix. Thank you!"

Paul Butler, Florida, USA

"First and foremost, Soccer Coach Weekly is truly unique and exceptional for its clarity and for explaining the "why?", in addition to the "how?". Soccer Coach Weekly is also professionally managed - any issues, which are infrequent, are resolved in an expedient and courteous manner. I place Soccer Coach Weekly at the top of my recommendation list for any new or seasoned coach of the beautiful game."

Rick Shields, Springboro, USA

"I coach both young club players as well as players at the High School level and both genders. The talent range is wide at times, however with the use of Soccer Coach Weekly I am able to apply the information to all talent levels and player ages and make the session fun and challenging for all players. It has helped spark me at times when I am at a loss for what to do at the next training session or offers a different approach to a current problem."

Tony Green, Pierrefonds Titans, Quebec, Canada

"My team and myself are truly enjoying the Soccer Coach Weekly downloads. Pierrefonds Titans are a great group of U16 Females who compete in the Lac St-Louis Association of Montreal, Quebec, Canada."