Professional Documents
Culture Documents
80 Shooting Drills
80 Shooting Drills
Contents
SECTION 1 - Unopposed build up and
31 - 1v1 Disguise
2 - Hat-Trick of Chances
70 - Role Reversal
34 - 1v1 Choice
35 - Progressive Choices
72 - 3 Player Counter
37 - 1v1 Crossways
38 - 2v1 Crossways
10 - Set and Go
11 - Crossing Alley 1
78 - 4v2 Continuous
12 - Crossing Alley 2
13 - Crossing Alley 3
43 - Continuous Overload
14 - Crossing Alley 4
15 - Crossing Alley 5
45 - Build Up Confidence
16 - In- or Out-Swing
17 - One-Two Cross
47 - 3v2 Targets
18 - Overlap Cross
49 - ABC Finishing 1
50 - ABC Finishing 2
51 - ABC Finishing 3
22 - Build Up to Score 1
52 - ABC Finishing 4
23 - Build Up to Score 2
53 - ABC Finishing 5
24 - Build Up to Score 3
25 - Build Up to Score 4
26 - Build Up to Score 5
combination play
61 - ABCD Finishing 1
62 - ABCD Finishing 2
63 - ABCD Finishing 3
64 - ABCD Finishing 4
65 - ABCDE Finishing
66 - 1v1 / 2v1 Game
67 - 2v1 / 3v2 Game
Legal Notices
Disclaimer
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Credits
Legal Notices
Author
Michael Beale
Editor
Design, Cover and Illustrations
Cover Photo
Customer Services
Publisher
Managing Director
Kevin Barrow
Artlife
Getty Images / Ross Kinnaird
Duncan Heard
Kevin Barrow
Andrew Griffiths
Introduction
At its heart, football is a simple game. The difference between winning and losing comes down to your teams
ability to score more goals than your opponents.
Everybody loves to watch attacking football; club sides like Arsenal and Manchester United and international
teams like Brazil and Holland are followed by millions of people who do not necessarily support those teams, but
who enjoy watching fast, incisive and attractive attacking football.
The thrill of scoring a goal and the feeling it gives you is very hard to describe. This is the same for a young player
playing his first game, or a veteran on a Sunday park pitch, as it is for a top professional in the World Cup final.
However, one thing is for sure, once you score that first goal, you are immediately in love with the game and the
feeling of scoring a goal.
This book aims to increase your teams chances of creating and converting goal scoring opportunities. The drills
aim to build confidence in possession of the ball and enhance your players understanding of when, where and
what to do in the final 3rd of the pitch.
The drills are designed to allow maximum time in contact with a ball and include lots of variation on movement
and choice of action by the players. As a coach you can modify the drills and add your own rules that fall into line
with your own tactics and vision of how you would like your team to play.
Often the best attacking play is instinctive and off the cuff; however, in your training sessions you must be able
to show the players all the possibilities that are open to them when attacking. Once you have opened up your
players awareness, then they will be more flexible and creative in game situations. This in turn will lead to more
goal scoring chances being created.
This book is divided into three key areas of training:
1 Unopposed build up and combination play
2 Opposed drills
3 Small-Sided Games
As we go through the book, we will describe why each area is so important in creating the building blocks of
training and learning.
Michael Beale
Players
Each drill in this book shows a recommended number of players needed to run that particular drill. The
drills can, on the whole, be easily expanded and many assume that you will have a queue of players that
keep the drill ticking over while your players collect errant shots and make their way back to the starting
point.
Equipment
One of the beauties of the game is that it can be played almost anywhere with a reasonably flat surface.
If you do not have some of the equipment listed in the Setup section, you can, of course, substitute
equipment you do have. Training tops become cones, corner flags become goalposts, parents and coaches
become mannequins.
The Steps
The steps required to run each drill have been broken down into 3 sections, each relating to a numbered
illustration showing what movements should be made within each step.
In section 3 (Small-Sided Games) some of the games are continuous so the steps shown here are in fact
the initial rules and apply throughout the duration of the game.
Rotation
Some of the drills in this book operate on a more obvious rotation than others. A player takes his shot and
then rejoins the back of the queue for example. Others require players to move from one station to the
next taking on the role of attacker, defender or server. Others, such as the small-sided games in section 3,
operate continuously for a set period of time.
SECTION 1
Unopposed drills improve the technique, movement and, most importantly, the confidence of players
when attacking the opponents goal. We start this section with simple two player combinations and
gradually build into crossing areas and team build-up play in order to score a goal
SETUP
Area:
Half Pitch
Equipment:
3 Mannequins, 1 Goal
No. of Players: 4 Outfield, 1 Goalkeeper
THE STEPS
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
The midfielder becomes the forward.
The forward joins the queue to become the
attacker.
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
The forward receives the ball in space and shoots at goal.
2 - Hat-Trick of Chances
Test your attackers with this simple drill
which encourages a range of finishing
techniques.
SETUP
Area:
Half Pitch
Equipment:
3 Cones, 1 Goal
No. of Players: 4 Outfield, 1 Goalkeeper
The forward plays a one-two and shoots at goal.
THE STEPS
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
Then runs into the box for a header...
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
...before running out to receive a third ball for a final shot
at goal.
SETUP
Area:
40 x 30 yards
Equipment:
2 Cones, 2 Mannequins, 2 Goals
No. of Players: 4 Outfield, 2 Goalkeepers
The forward must time his run to stay onside.
THE STEPS
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
The dribbling player becomes the new forward and attacks
the opposite end.
SETUP
Area:
40 x 30 yards
Equipment:
2 Cones, 2 Mannequins, 1 Goal
No. of Players: 4 Outfield, 1 Goalkeeper
The attacker beats the mannequin for a shot at goal.
THE STEPS
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
...before latching onto a through ball for another chance to
score.
SETUP
Area:
40 x 30 yards
Equipment:
2 Cones, 1 Goal
No. of Players: 4 Outfield, 1 Goalkeeper
Sharp, accurate passing releases the black striker for a shot
at goal.
THE STEPS
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
The players join the back of the queue for the
other role ready for their next turn.
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
The white striker is now through on goal for a chance to
shoot.
SETUP
Area:
40 x 30 yards
Equipment:
2 Cones, 1 Goal
No. of Players: 2 Outfield, 1 Goalkeeper
Player 1 dribbles with the ball and takes a shot.
THE STEPS
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
The players switch roles for the next attack.
He must react quickly to play a one-two with Player 2...
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
...and follows Player 2s shot to capitalize on any rebounds.
SETUP
Area:
40 x 30 yards
Equipment:
3 Cones, 1 Goal
No. of Players: 3 Outfield, 1 Goalkeeper
The drill begins with a pass into the two forwards.
THE STEPS
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
Player 1 becomes Player 2.
Player 2 becomes Player 3.
Player 3 joins the queue to become Player 1.
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
Player 1 latches onto a through ball for a shot at goal.
SETUP
Area:
40 x 30 yards
Equipment:
4 Cones, 1 Goal
No. of Players: 4 Outfield, 1 Goalkeeper
The drill begins with a pass into the three forwards.
THE STEPS
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
Player 4 joins the target players.
Player 1 becomes the new starting player.
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
If he is sent wide, Player 1 must decide whether to shoot or
cross for the other players.
SETUP
Area:
40 x 30 yards
Equipment:
4 Cones, 2 Goals
No. of Players: 6 Outfield, 2 Goalkeepers
The player makes a long pass to the coach...
THE STEPS
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
After completing the circuit, the player becomes
a server for the next shooter.
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
He then reacts quickly for a shot with his right.
10 - Set and Go
Get your strikers and midfielders
combining in this exercise that requires a
neat lay off and a precise threaded ball to
set up the shot across the keeper.
SETUP
Area:
40 x 30 yards
Equipment:
4 Mannequins, 2 Cones, 2 Goals
No. of Players: 6 Outfield, 2 Goalkeepers
The forwards move to receive a pass.
THE STEPS
Both groups work at the same time
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
The midfielder becomes the forward for the
next turn.
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
Encourage the players to shoot across the keeper.
10
11 - Crossing Alley 1
This drill encourages wide players to
practice crossing the ball using both feet
and gives your strikers practice at finishing
crosses.
SETUP
Area:
40 x 30 yards
Equipment:
6 Cones, 2 Goals
No. of Players: 9 Outfield, 2 Goalkeepers
The wide player dribbles to the opposite corner of the
playing area...
THE STEPS
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
Once a shot has been taken an attack is launched in the
opposite direction.
11
12 - Crossing Alley 2
This development of the previous exercise
tests your wingers ability to get the ball
into the box first time.
SETUP
Area:
40 x 30 yards
Equipment:
6 Cones, 2 Goals
No. of Players: 9 Outfield, 2 Goalkeepers
The wide player receives a pass and plays it long to the
opposite corner.
THE STEPS
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
The wide player runs to receive a lay off...
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
...and crosses for the attackers to score.
12
13 - Crossing Alley 3
A further progression of the previous drills
gets your wingers changing pace, covering
half the ground without the ball and half
with it before crossing to the strikers.
SETUP
Area:
40 x 30 yards
Equipment:
6 Cones, 2 Goals
No. of Players: 9 Outfield, 2 Goalkeepers
The wide player plays into the coach and runs to receive a
return pass.
THE STEPS
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
He then dribbles the ball to the opposite corner...
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
...before crossing for the attackers.
13
14 - Crossing Alley 4
Any team that can get their fullbacks into
crossing positions will create chances. The
overlap run gets them into a dangerous area
to put in a first time cross.
SETUP
Area:
40 x 30 yards
Equipment:
6 Cones, 2 Goals
No. of Players: 9 Outfield, 2 Goalkeepers
The wide player starts by playing a ball into the coach.
THE STEPS
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
He then makes an overlapping run...
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
...and crosses for the attackers.
14
15 - Crossing Alley 5
The build-up play becomes more intricate
in this further progression of Crossing Alley
as the wide players link up to get into a
dangerous crossing area.
SETUP
Area:
40 x 30 yards
Equipment:
7 Cones, 2 Goals
No. of Players: 9 Outfield, 2 Goalkeepers
The first wide player passes into the central player...
THE STEPS
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
...and follows his pass to receive a lay off.
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
The central player runs to the touchline to receive a return
pass and cross for the attackers.
15
16 - In- or Out-Swing
Finding the space to cross does not always
come from a run straight down the wing.
In this exercise the wingers must decide
whether to cut inside or head for the byline.
SETUP
Area:
30 x 30 yards
Equipment:
4 Mannequins, 2 Cones, 1 Goal
No. of Players: 6 Outfield, 1 Goalkeeper
The wide player works towards goal and has two options.
THE STEPS
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
...cut inside and make an inswinging cross.
16
17 - One-Two Cross
Release your wide players to cross for the
attackers who must time their runs to arrive
in the box at the same time as the ball.
SETUP
Area:
Half Pitch
Equipment:
6 Cones, 1 Goal
No. of Players: 10 Outfield, 1 Goalkeeper
The deepest wide player plays a one-two with his teammate...
THE STEPS
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
The drill runs continually for a set period of
time before the attackers and crossers switch
roles.
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
The next attack starts from the opposite side.
17
18 - Overlap Cross
In this progression from the previous
practice - One-Two Cross - the wide players
overlap and pull the cross back from the
byline for the forwards to attack.
SETUP
Area:
Half Pitch
Equipment:
6 Cones, 1 Goal
No. of Players: 10 Outfield, 1 Goalkeeper
The deepest wide player passes to his teammate and
makes an overlapping run...
THE STEPS
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
The practice runs continually for a set period of
time before the attackers and crossers switch
roles.
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
The next attack starts from the opposite side.
18
SETUP
Area:
Half Pitch
Equipment:
6 Cones, 1 Goal
No. of Players: 10 Outfield, 1 Goalkeeper
THE STEPS
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
The player who received the ball from the coach overlaps
and crosses for the attackers.
19
SETUP
Area:
40 x 30 yards
Equipment:
1 Mannequin, 1 Cone, 1 Goal
No. of Players: 3 Outfield, 1 Goalkeeper
The attacker dribbles past the mannequin...
THE STEPS
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
The drill runs continually for a set period of
time with attackers rejoining the back of the
queue after each turn.
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
Before moving for a close range finish with precision.
20
SETUP
Area:
Half Pitch
Equipment:
5 Cones, 2 Goals, 1 Mannequin
No. of Players: 8 Outfield, 2 Goalkeepers
Player 1 is first to take a shot.
THE STEPS
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
After each attack the players move to the next
place on the circuit.
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
Players 2 and 3 combine to cross for 4 and 5 to score.
21
22 - Build Up to Score 1
Crisp, accurate passing combined with
effective runs from the wide player and
attackers will carve out chances time-aftertime.
SETUP
Area:
Half Pitch
Equipment:
5 Cones, 1 Goal
No. of Players: 9 Outfield, 1 Goalkeeper
A series of passes moves the ball wide to the full back.
THE STEPS
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
The wide player crosses for the forwards to score.
22
23 - Build Up to Score 2
In this progression of the previous drill,
a run from deep by the full-back enables
the wide player to join the forwards giving
three targets for the cross.
SETUP
Area:
Half Pitch
Equipment:
5 Cones, 1 Goal
No. of Players: 9 Outfield, 1 Goalkeeper
The ball is played out to the wide player.
THE STEPS
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
The full back receives the ball and crosses for the wide
player and two forwards to attack.
23
24 - Build Up to Score 3
A further progression of drill 22. One of the
forwards spins into the wide channel while
the wide player covers ground to get on the
end of the cross.
SETUP
Area:
Half Pitch
Equipment:
5 Cones, 1 Goal
No. of Players: 9 Outfield, 1 Goalkeeper
The players combine to move the ball to the full-back.
THE STEPS
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
He spins outside with the ball and crosses for the wide
player and second forward to attack.
24
25 - Build Up to Score 4
Finish a similar build-up scenario with a
through ball to one of the forwards. Make
sure the second forward spins into the box
to benefit from a miss-hit shot or rebound.
SETUP
Area:
Half Pitch
Equipment:
5 Cones, 1 Goal
No. of Players: 9 Outfield, 1 Goalkeeper
The ball is played out to the full back.
THE STEPS
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
Before releasing the striker to score.
25
26 - Build Up to Score 5
The build up becomes more intricate with
this series of short passes leading to a
shooting opportunity for the wide player.
SETUP
Area:
Half Pitch
Equipment:
5 Cones, 1 Goal
No. of Players: 9 Outfield, 1 Goalkeeper
THE STEPS
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
A further one-two brings the winger inside.
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
The attacker spins to the outside and crosses for the wide
player who has continued his run into the box.
26
SETUP
Area:
Half Pitch
Equipment:
5 Cones, 1 Goal
No. of Players: 6 Outfield, 1 Goalkeeper
The starting player dribbles onto the pitch and the ball is
moved wide.
THE STEPS
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
The central player crosses for the wide player who has
continued his run into the box.
27
SETUP
Area:
Half Pitch
Equipment:
4 Cones, 1 Goal
No. of Players: 6 Outfield, 1 Goalkeeper
THE STEPS
1.
2.
3.
The starting player dribbles onto the pitch and the ball is
moved wide.
ROTATION
KEY
Player Movement
The starting player gets the ball back and releases the overlapping midfielder.
Ball Movement
The wide player gets into the box to score.
28
SETUP
Area:
Half Pitch
Equipment:
3 Cones, 1 Goal
No. of Players: 3 Outfield, 1 Goalkeeper
THE STEPS
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
The right midfielder crosses for the centre midfielder to
score.
29
SETUP
Area:
40 x 30 yards
Equipment:
1 Cone, 2 Goals
No. of Players: 5 Outfield, 2 Goalkeepers
A one two sets up the starting player for a shot.
THE STEPS
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
...and crosses for the forward to score.
30
SECTION 2
Opposed Drills
So far we have developed the players levels of understanding, movement and combination play
when building up to attack. Now we progress to opposed drills where we can add defenders in mini
match scenarios. As coaches we can now correct and adjust the players movements and decision
making
Opposed Drills
31 - 1 v 1 Disguise
This 1v1 drill tests your attackers decision
making as they attempt to create the space
to score in one of two goals.
SETUP
Area:
25 x 20 yards
Equipment:
2 Cones, 2 Goals
No. of Players: 2 Outfield, 2 Goalkeepers
THE STEPS
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
The players switch positions for the next turn
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
He creates a shooting chance by losing the defender with
disguise.
31
Opposed Drills
SETUP
Area:
30 x 30 yards
Equipment:
4 Cones, 1 Goal
No. of Players: 3 Outfield, 1 Goalkeeper
Player 1 passes to Player 2...
THE STEPS
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
...who must now try and beat Player 1 to score.
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
Player 1 now receives a ball from the coach and Player 3
must try to stop him turning and scoring.
32
Opposed Drills
SETUP
Area:
30 x 30 yards
Equipment:
2 Cones, 1 Goal
No. of Players: 3 Outfield, 1 Goalkeeper
THE STEPS
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
...and receives a return pass to shoot at goal
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
He immediately turns to defend against the forward.
33
Opposed Drills
34 - 1 v 1 Choice
The defender calls out an attacker for a
straightforward 1v1 situation. Four different
starting positions give the attackers the
opportunity to run at goal from different
angles.
SETUP
Area:
30 x 30 yards
Equipment:
5 Cones, 1 Goal
No. of Players: 5 Outfield, 1 Goalkeeper
The defending player calls the name of his opponent.
THE STEPS
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
The attacker takes on the role of defender and calls for a
new attacker.
34
Opposed Drills
35 - Progressive Choices
This drill extends the previous drill (1v1
Choice) to create a series of incrementally
larger attacking match-ups.
SETUP
Area:
30 x 30 yards
Equipment:
5 Cones, 1 Goal
No. of Players: 5 Outfield, 1 Goalkeeper
THE STEPS
1.
2.
3.
4.
ROTATION
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
The numbers increase until all players are on the pitch.
35
Opposed Drills
SETUP
Area:
40 x 30 yards
Equipment:
3 Cones, 2 Goals
No. of Players: 9 Outfield, 2 Goalkeepers
THE STEPS
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
The defender passes to the attacker and gets goalside.
36
Opposed Drills
37 - 1v1 Crossways
Keep the pressure on as your players are
forced to re-orient themselves and switch
from attack to defence in this right angled
1v1 practice.
SETUP
Area:
25 x 25 yards
Equipment:
2 Cones, 2 Goals
No. of Players: 8 Outfield, 2 Goalkeepers
The teams attack the goal they are facing...
THE STEPS
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
The game continues for a set period of time.
Switch the starting positions to get the players
changing the direction of their turn.
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
Then defend the other goal.
37
Opposed Drills
38 - 2v1 Crossways
This progression on the previous drill will
really challenge your attackers. Combining
2v1 to score is one thing, but can they score
1v2?
SETUP
Area:
25 x 25 yards
Equipment:
2 Cones, 2 Goals
No. of Players: 8 Outfield, 2 Goalkeepers
The drill starts with one team attacking the goal they are
facing 2v1.
THE STEPS
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
After a set time period rotate the advantage.
After shooting, the attackers then defend the other goal.
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
Can the attacker beat two defenders and score?
38
Opposed Drills
SETUP
Area:
30 x 30 yards
Equipment:
3 Cones, 1 Goal
No. of Players: 9 Outfield, 1 Goalkeeper
Set your players up in three groups.
THE STEPS
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
The practice runs continuously for a set period
of time.
Each group takes a turn as the central group.
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
Before defending 2v1 against an attacker from the middle
group.
39
Opposed Drills
SETUP
Area:
30 x 30 yards
Equipment:
3 Cones, 1 Goal
No. of Players: 6 Outfield, 1 Goalkeeper
THE STEPS
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
For the next attack the defender rotates
positions with the starting player.
The other player enters as a defender.
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
The two attackers must combine to score 2v1.
40
Opposed Drills
SETUP
Area:
30 x 30 yards
Equipment:
3 Cones, 1 Goal
No. of Players: 9 Outfield, 1 Goalkeeper
The starting player passes in and makes an overlapping run
to score.
THE STEPS
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
And the two attackers try to score 2 v 1.
41
Opposed Drills
SETUP
Area:
30 x 30 yards
Equipment:
5 Cones, 1 Goal
No. of Players: 10 Outfield, 1 Goalkeeper
THE STEPS
Player 1 makes a pass into the two forwards.
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
Immediately, Player 1 defends a cross 2v1.
42
Opposed Drills
43 - Continuous Overload
This continuous run of attacking overloads
alternates the team with the advantage for
a series of 5 attacks.
SETUP
Area:
40 x 30 yards
Equipment:
1 Goal
No. of Players: 8 Outfield, 1 Goalkeeper
THE STEPS
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
For the next game, rotate the team that starts.
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
The rest of the players join in waves to reach a 4v4
situation.
43
Opposed Drills
SETUP
Area:
40 x 30 yards
Equipment:
1 Goal
No. of Players: 6 Outfield, 1 Goalkeeper
THE STEPS
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
The forwards count the number of goals scored
and then rotate with the defenders for the next
game.
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
Further defenders join until 3v3 is played.
44
Opposed Drills
45 - Build Up Confidence
The attackers start from deep in this buildup skill. Can they advance to a shooting
opportunity as extra defenders join the
game?
SETUP
Area:
40 x 30 yards
Equipment:
2 Goals
No. of Players: 8 Outfield, 2 Goalkeepers
THE STEPS
1.
2.
3.
The keeper throws the ball out for the attackers to score
4v1.
ROTATION
Extra defenders are added until 4v4 is played.
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
If the defenders win the ball they can attack the opposite
end.
45
Opposed Drills
SETUP
Area:
40 x 30 yards
Equipment:
5 Cones, 2 Goals
No. of Players: 10 Outfield, 2 Goalkeepers
The starting player dribbles and passes to the two
opponents.
THE STEPS
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
The two opponents attack the top goal 2v1.
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
Two team mates join the starting player and they attack the
bottom goal 3v2.
46
Opposed Drills
47 - 3v2 Targets
Make sure your players are lined up
alternately at the three stations as the
central player looks to find a target
teammate to set up a 3v2 attacking
opportunity.
SETUP
Area:
40 x 30 yards
Equipment:
3 Cones, 1 Goal
No. of Players: 12 Outfield, 1 Goalkeeper
It is important that the stations are lined up in alternating
teams.
THE STEPS
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
The forwards pull off of their markers to receive the ball.
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
The forwards then combine 3v2 to score.
47
Opposed Drills
SETUP
Area:
40 x 30 yards
Equipment:
4 Cones, 1 Goal
No. of Players: 4 Outfield, 1 Goalkeeper
THE STEPS
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
The starting player tries to defend the cross 1v2.
48
Opposed Drills
49 - ABC Finishing 1
ABC finishing promotes independent
thought and improves your players decision
making skills. Drills 49 to 65 can be mixed
and matched to create a varied and testing
drills session.
SETUP
Area:
40 x 30 yards
Equipment:
3 Cones, 1 Goal
No. of Players: 3 Outfield, 1 Goalkeeper
Player 1 dribbles and shoots at goal.
THE STEPS
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
The remaining player receives the ball wide and runs and
crosses for the two players to score.
49
Opposed Drills
50 - ABC Finishing 2
SETUP
Area:
40 x 30 yards
Equipment:
3 Cones, 1 Goal
No. of Players: 3 Outfield, 1 Goalkeeper
THE STEPS
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
Player 1 becomes Player 2.
Player 2 becomes Player 3.
Player 3 becomes Player 1.
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
Before defending 1v2 against the other players.
50
Opposed Drills
51 - ABC Finishing 3
SETUP
Area:
40 x 30 yards
Equipment:
3 Cones, 1 Goal
No. of Players: 3 Outfield, 1 Goalkeeper
THE STEPS
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
Player 1 becomes Player 2.
Player 2 becomes Player 3.
Player 3 becomes Player 1.
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
The player chosen plays a through-ball for the opposite
player to score.
51
Opposed Drills
52 - ABC Finishing 4
SETUP
Area:
40 x 30 yards
Equipment:
3 Cones, 1 Goal
No. of Players: 3 Outfield, 1 Goalkeeper
THE STEPS
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
Player 1 becomes Player 2.
Player 2 becomes Player 3.
Player 3 becomes Player 1.
He then chooses which player to combine with and plays a
one-two.
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
The player chosen plays a through-ball for the opposite
player while Player 1 acts as a defender.
52
Opposed Drills
53 - ABC Finishing 5
SETUP
Area:
40 x 30 yards
Equipment:
3 Cones, 1 Goal
No. of Players: 3 Outfield, 1 Goalkeeper
THE STEPS
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
Player 1 becomes Player 2.
Player 2 becomes Player 3.
Player 3 becomes Player 1.
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
The player chosen crosses for the opposite wide player to
score.
53
Opposed Drills
Area:
40 x 30 yards
Equipment:
4 Cones, 1 Goal
No. of Players: 3 Outfield, 1 Goalkeeper
THE STEPS
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
Player 1 becomes Player 2.
Player 2 becomes Player 3.
Player 3 becomes Player 1.
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
And again from a cross by Player 4.
54
Opposed Drills
Area:
40 x 30 yards
Equipment:
4 Cones, 1 Goal
No. of Players: 3 Outfield, 1 Goalkeeper
THE STEPS
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
Player 1 becomes Player 2.
Player 2 becomes Player 3.
Player 3 becomes Player 1.
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
The remaining player teams up with Player 1 for a 2v2.
55
Opposed Drills
Area:
40 x 30 yards
Equipment:
4 Cones, 1 Goal
No. of Players: 4 Outfield, 1 Goalkeeper
THE STEPS
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
Before Player 2 crosses for Players 3 and 4 to attack.
56
Opposed Drills
Area:
40 x 30 yards
Equipment:
3 Cones, 1 Goal
No. of Players: 3 Outfield, 1 Goalkeeper
THE STEPS
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
Player 1 becomes Player 2.
Player 2 becomes Player 3.
Player 3 becomes Player 1.
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
Player 3 dribbles past Player 2 and shoots.
57
Opposed Drills
Area:
40 x 30 yards
Equipment:
3 Cones, 1 Goal
No. of Players: 3 Outfield, 1 Goalkeeper
THE STEPS
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
Player 1 becomes Player 2.
Player 2 becomes Player 3.
Player 3 becomes Player 1.
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
Player 3 attacks 1v1 against Player 2.
58
Opposed Drills
Area:
40 x 30 yards
Equipment:
3 Cones, 1 Goal
No. of Players: 3 Outfield, 1 Goalkeeper
THE STEPS
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
Player 3 combines with Player 1 in a 2v1 situation against
Player 2.
59
Opposed Drills
Area:
40 x 30 yards
Equipment:
3 Cones, 1 Goal
No. of Players: 3 Outfield, 1 Goalkeeper
THE STEPS
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
Player 1 becomes Player 2.
Player 2 becomes Player 3.
Player 3 becomes Player 1.
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
Player 3 makes a choice of which team mate he would like
and passes into that player to make a 2v1 situation.
60
Opposed Drills
61 - ABCD Finishing 1
SETUP
Area:
40 x 30 yards
Equipment:
4 Cones, 1 Goal
No. of Players: 4 Outfield, 1 Goalkeeper
THE STEPS
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
Player 3 takes on Player 4 1v1.
61
Opposed Drills
62 - ABCD Finishing 2
SETUP
Area:
40 x 30 yards
Equipment:
4 Cones, 1 Goal
No. of Players: 4 Outfield, 1 Goalkeeper
THE STEPS
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
Player 3 attacks Players 2 and 4 1v1.
62
Opposed Drills
63 - ABCD Finishing 3
SETUP
Area:
40 x 30 yards
Equipment:
4 Cones, 1 Goal
No. of Players: 4 Outfield, 1 Goalkeeper
THE STEPS
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
Players 1 and 3 take on Players 2 and 4 2v2.
63
Opposed Drills
64 - ABCD Finishing 4
SETUP
Area:
40 x 30 yards
Equipment:
4 Cones, 1 Goal
No. of Players: 4 Outfield, 1 Goalkeeper
THE STEPS
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
Players 2 and 4 attack Players 1 and 3 2v2.
64
Opposed Drills
65 - ABCDE Finishing
SETUP
Area:
40 x 30 yards
Equipment:
4 Cones, 1 Goal
No. of Players: 5 Outfield, 1 Goalkeeper
THE STEPS
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
Player 5 teams up with Players 1 and 2 to go 3v2 against
Players 3 and 4.
65
Opposed Drills
SETUP
Area:
40 x 30 yards
Equipment:
10 Cones, 2 Goals
No. of Players: 10 Outfield, 2 Goalkeepers
THE STEPS
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
...and attacks the bottom box 2v1 with his team mate.
66
Opposed Drills
SETUP
Area:
40 x 30 yards
Equipment:
10 Cones, 2 Goals
No. of Players: 12 Outfield, 2 Goalkeepers
THE STEPS
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
...and attacks the bottom box 3v2 with his teammates.
67
SECTION 3
Small-Sided Games
Having guided your players through the unopposed and opposed drills they should now have a
greater level of ability, technique and understanding when in Attacking situations. The final piece of
our coaching jigsaw is to progress to Small-Sided Games. In the Small-Sided Games we are looking
to create a real game environment where opposing sets of players are both trying to score. Now as
the coach you can lead your team through ways of attacking from deep, wide, and central positions.
Its also important to teach the players that without possession of the ball its impossible for them to
attack, therefore each player has a role to play on defence and then on the transition of
winning the ball
Small-Sided Games
SETUP
Area:
Equipment:
No. of Players:
40 x 30 yard
2 Goals
9 Outfield (3 teams of 3),
2 Goalkeepers
The black team plays the ball wide to a neutral.
THE RULES
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
KEY
Player Movement
The neutral runs down the wing and crosses to the black
attacker.
Ball Movement
The white team attack down the middle with the extra-man
advantage of the central neutral.
68
Small-Sided Games
SETUP
Area:
40 x 30 yard
Equipment:
3 Goals
No. of Players: 6 Outfield, 3 Goalkeepers
THE RULES
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
The black shorts attack the two-goals and the black team
defends.
69
Small-Sided Games
70 - Role Reversal
This 4v4 rotation works like a half-court
basketball game as the defending team
must work the ball out to the coach before
launching their own attack.
SETUP
Area:
40 x 30 yard
Equipment:
1 Goal
No. of Players: 8 Outfield, 1 Goalkeeper
THE RULES
1.
2.
3.
One player drops back in goal as the coach serves a ball in.
ROTATION
The game is played for a set time period with
the coach keeping scores.
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
The black team choose a goalkeeper as the white team
launch an attack.
70
Small-Sided Games
SETUP
Area:
40 x 30 yard
Equipment:
2 Goals, 10 Balls
No. of Players: 8 Outfield, 2 Goalkeepers
THE RULES
The first player attacks unopposed.
1.
2.
3.
4.
Team 1 V Team 2
1 V Goalkeeper, 1V2, 3V2, 3V4, 4v4
ROTATION
For the next game, the starting team rotates.
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
Then the white team attacks 3v2 as the game progresses
to 4v4.
71
Small-Sided Games
72 - 3 Player Counter
Three teams compete to put together a run
of attacks starting from the central zone.
The defending teams must win the ball to
take their turn in the central zone.
SETUP
Area:
50 x 30 yard
Equipment:
6 Cones (for central zone), 2 Goals
No. of Players: 9 Outfield, 1 Goalkeeper
THE RULES
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
The game runs continuously for a set time
period.
KEY
Player Movement
If they score they return and get another ball to attack the
opposite goal.
Ball Movement
If they fail to score the defending team breaks out to the
central zone to attack.
72
Small-Sided Games
SETUP
Area:
50 x 30 yard
Equipment:
6 Cones (for central zone), 2 Goals
No. of Players: 12 Outfield, 2 Goalkeepers
THE RULES
1.
2.
3.
The black shorts use the neutral to score against the black
team.
ROTATION
The game runs continuously for a set time
period.
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
But the white team stop them from scoring and attack the
opposite goal.
73
Small-Sided Games
SETUP
Area:
50 x 30 yard
Equipment:
6 Cones (for central zone), 2 Goals
No. of Players: 12 Outfield, 2 Goalkeepers
THE RULES
1.
2.
3.
Then they attack the white team using the central neutral
player.
ROTATION
The game runs continuously for a set time.
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
But fail to score and the white team break out to attack the
opposite goal.
74
Small-Sided Games
SETUP
Area:
40 x 30 yard
Equipment:
1 Goal
No. of Players: 8 Outfield, 1 Goalkeeper
THE RULES
1.
2.
3.
The black team receives a ball from the coach to start the
game.
ROTATION
After the five balls are played the roles are
reversed and the previous defending team tries
to beat the other teams score.
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
The coach serves the balls quickly to keep the pressure on
the defence.
75
Small-Sided Games
SETUP
Area:
Equipment:
No. of Players:
40 x 30 yard
6 Cones, 1 Goal
12 Outfield (3 teams of 4),
1 Goalkeeper
THE RULES
1.
2.
3.
4.
ROTATION
After four minutes the team that has scored the
fewest goals must become the new defenders.
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
If they fail the black shorts get a chance to attack against
the other pair of defenders.
76
Small-Sided Games
SETUP
Area:
Equipment:
No. of Players:
40 x 30 yard
Cones (for central line), 2 Goals
8 Outfield (4 teams of 2),
2 Goalkeepers
Three teams square up in this game.
THE RULES
1.
2.
3.
4.
ROTATION
The black team score from their first cross.
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
The defenders must force a mistake if they are to launch an
attack of their own.
77
Small-Sided Games
78 - 4v2 Continuous
Get your players used to counter-attacking
overloads in this 10-ball continuous
overload game.
SETUP
Area:
40 x 30 yard
Equipment:
2 Goals
No. of Players: 8 Outfield, 2 Goalkeepers
THE RULES
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
The attacking and defending teams swap roles.
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
Which team will make the most of their 10 opportunities?
78
Small-Sided Games
SETUP
Area:
40 x 30 yard
Equipment:
4 Cones, 2 Goals
No. of Players: 14 Outfield, 2 Goalkeepers
THE RULES
The teams select their full-time forwards.
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
The black team attacks 3v2.
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
The white team can counter attack, joining their forward to
make a 3v2 at the other end.
79
Small-Sided Games
SETUP
Area:
Equipment:
No. of Players:
50 x 30 yard
8 Cones, 2 Goals
12 Outfield (2 teams of 6,
numbered), 2 Goalkeepers
The white team need intricate passing in the crowded
central zone.
THE RULES
1.
2.
3.
ROTATION
The black team can move the ball wide where there is
space.
KEY
Player Movement
Ball Movement
The coach can change the restrictions on each team to
switch the challenge
80
Conclusion
I hope the drills in this book have helped you to take your players and team to a higher level. As coaches
of the next generation of players, fans, coaches and officials we have big responsibility and effect on the
future of the game.
Let me share a key insight with you:
The game of football is unpredictable and although two things can often be similar they are never the
same. Therefore, as coaches, our training sessions must not always be predictable. If they are, then our
players will not function effectively in matches as they will be programmed to both play and react to
predictable movements.
Therefore, repetitive training of techniques and skills is good to a point, but players must be given choice
and variation on actions, movements and starting positions. We must recreate the game in our training.
I would like to thank you personally for purchasing this book and I welcome your feedback and questions
personally to me at [email protected]
Best wishes
Michael Beale