Heading from crosses

 

What this session is about

1. Scoring goals.
2. Accurate and  powerful heading.

 

What to think about

The following techniques need to be considered:

• Move into the ball’s line of flight.
• Take off on one foot, and land on both.
• Use the arms for elevation.
• At the highest point of the jump, head the top half of the ball to direct it downwards.
• Strong neck muscles and an arched back equal power.
• Aim for the corners of the goal.

 

Set-up

Use a portable goal (or two poles placed approximately 3 yards to 4 yards apart, or up to 7 yards apart depending on the age of your players). Split you players into groups of three – one goalkeeper, one attacker and one server.

Warm up	Session	Development	Game Situation	Warm Down
10 minutes	10 minutes	15 minutes	15 minutes	10 minutes

 

What you get your players to do

The attacker stands in line with the far post, 10 yards from goal. The server stands 5 yards outside the near post, and about 3 yards from the goal line. He throws the ball underarm to an area approximately 5 yards to 6 yards from goal in front of the attacker. The attacker runs towards the throw and heads the ball. The goalkeeper must stay on their line but try to make a save. After five attempts, repeat the drill with the server throwing the ball from the other side.

The server can vary the delivery by throwing the ball overhead.