By David Johnson -
Objective
This session will focus on shooting and service for the shooter. The focus needs to be on proper weight and direction of the pass and the quality of the finish. This should be done as close to game speed as possible.
Diagram 1
Set Up
Position 3 cones in a triangle on one side of the penalty area. The exercise begins with one player at the side cone (service cone) and one player at the top of the penalty area (shooting cone). The rest of the players line up on the end line cone with balls. This drill can be done with or without a goalkeeper, but a goalkeeper is recommended.
Execution
The first passing pattern is the first pass to the player at the service cone who then plays a ground pass to the shooter for a finish. The rotation is the player who started the drill to move to the service cone. The player on the service cone to move to the shooting cone. The shooter to retrieve the ball and return to the line. As shown in Diagram 2
Diagram 2
The next progression is for service cone player to send back a 1 touch pass to the starting line. The starting line then sends a ground pass to the shooter for a finish. Same rotation as before.
Diagram 3
The next progression is for the starting line to send the ball directly to the shooter who passes it to the service cone. The service cone then can send a flighted or ground pass back to the shooter for a finish. Same rotation.
Diagram 4
Variation
- The same triangle cone setup can be placed on the opposite side of the penalty area to mirror these patterns so the players can work both sides.
- The coach can call where the shoot should be placed – near post, far post, upper 90, etc.
- The passes can all be 1 touch or 2 touch – there can also be a foot restriction (right foot only, left foot only)
Coaching Points
- Ensure the players are opening up to receive and send the ball. The player must be in proper position in order to play the ball quickly
- Passes must be weighted properly and sent to the correct foot of the receiver
- The finish must be with direction and power – ensure the shooter follows their shot to the end.
By David Johnson
David Johnson has been a high school coach for more than 20 years.
