Sweeper-keeper: balls through and over the mannequins from distance (Tim Dittmer)
The keeper starts high, retreats when the coach draws the foot back and deals with a through ball or a lofted pass over two mannequins with a striker running from distance. The three-metre rule decides whether to come or stay.
El portero parte alto; cuando el entrenador arma la pierna, retrocede hacia la portería sin perder de vista el balón.
Objective
Make the right decision on balls in behind the defence: when to hold a high position, when to retreat and when to come out to win the ball or face the 1v1.
Organisation
Half pitch with one goal. One keeper in goal and another behind it ready to alternate. Two keepers (or players) act as strikers ready to run from distance. Two mannequins in front of the box: one on the edge of the D level with the near post and another 5 m to its right and slightly forward. Coach with balls just in front of the halfway line, about 10 m infield from the touchline.
Development
- 1The keeper takes a high position near the edge of the penalty area as if the ball were at the other end of the pitch.
- 2When the coach draws the foot back, the keeper retreats towards goal with quick steps without losing sight of the ball.
- 3The coach plays a low through ball or a lofted pass over the mannequins.
- 4The striker starts from distance, chases the ball and attacks the goal; the keeper must prevent the goal.
- 5Keeper's decision: if he can get within 3 m of ball and striker he comes to win it or block; otherwise he invites the striker in while keeping a strong position and reacts to the shot.
- 6Alternate keeper and striker every repetition. Variations: the non-receiving striker acts as a recovering defender, move the mannequins to change angles and distances, or give the striker a time limit to score.
Coaching points4
- Decide early: staying too high allows the chip or the dribble round the outside.
- Three-metre rule: within that distance of ball and striker, try to win it; further away, hold position.
- Trigger to come: ball caught under or between the striker's feet.
- When coming is not on, invite the striker in with a strong body and low posture.
Common mistakes3
- Retreating with the back to play and losing the reference of the ball.
- Coming halfway and getting stuck in no man's land.
- Rushing the striker when he already has the ball under control.
Variations3
- The non-receiving striker acts as a recovering defender supporting the keeper.
- Change the mannequin positions to vary angles and distances of the ball.
- Give the striker a five-second time limit to score.
Progressions2
- Bouncing and swerving balls to make reading the flight harder.
- Two strikers starting at the same time: the keeper must communicate and choose whom to face.
Regressions2
- The coach announces the type of pass before striking.
- Reduce the striker's starting distance so the keeper always arrives first.
Tips
- Keep plenty of balls next to the coach to maintain the rhythm.
- After each repetition ask the keeper which cue made him come or stay.