First-time shot with a recovering defender
The server plays the ball into space ahead of the attacker, who must finish first time while a defender starts closing him down the moment the ball is touched; repeated from the opposite side.
Step 1Pase al espacio
1 / 3
El 1 juega al espacio por delante del 2, que arranca en diagonal.
Objective
Finish first time on the run under pressure from a recovering defender, choosing to shoot through or around the defender.
Organisation
Goal with a keeper. On each side of the box, a server by the byline with balls and an attacker 18-20 m from goal. One defender in the centre, level with the penalty spot, facing the attackers. Groups of six; with twelve players set up two goals.
Development
- 1The right-side server (1) plays a firm pass into space ahead of the attacker (2), diagonally towards the centre of the box.
- 2Player 2 goes with the pass, adjusts his run and strikes first time, no control, with the laces, low towards the corners.
- 3The defender may only move to press once player 2 touches the ball: he steps out to close the shooting line or block.
- 4The keeper saves or collects and the ball returns to the server line.
- 5Repeat immediately in the opposite direction: the left-side server (3) serves attacker 4.
- 6Rotate after every shot: server to attacker, attacker to defender and defender to server, so everyone experiences all three roles.
- 7Count goals per player in sets of ten shots.
Coaching points4
- The first touch is the shot: adjust the run so you arrive at the ball and strike in one continuous movement.
- Laces, low and to the corners; the keeper has less time with a low ball.
- Decide before receiving: shoot through the defender (between his legs or the side he leaves) or around him with the direction of the shot.
- The server puts the ball where the attacker wants to strike, firm enough that it does not stop.
Common mistakes3
- The attacker waits for the ball standing still and controls before shooting.
- A server's pass that is too short or to feet and forces a second touch.
- The defender moves before the ball is touched.
Variations3
- The server chooses the type of pass: along the ground, waist height or bouncing.
- Attacker with his back to the server who must turn on the signal before receiving.
- Double points if the shot goes in on the side the defender is trying to close.
Progressions2
- When the attacker touches the ball, the server also sprints from behind to press: two defenders.
- Greater distance (25 m) and a two-second limit from pass to shot.
Regressions2
- Passive defender who only raises his arms without moving.
- Allow younger players one controlling touch and shorten the distance.
Tips
- Use a different cone colour for each side of the goal to explain the rotation without stopping the drill.
- Balls on both bylines so the servers never have to fetch them.