Attacking Headers on Goal

Description

Attackers time their runs to meet crosses delivered from wide positions and direct headers on target. The drill emphasizes reading the flight of the ball, timing the run to arrive at the right moment, and using placement over raw power to beat the goalkeeper. Players rotate through near post, far post, and penalty spot runs to develop versatile heading ability in front of goal.

Setup

Use one half of the pitch with a full-size goal and goalkeeper. Crossers set up on both wings with a supply of balls. 3-4 attackers start at the edge of the box and make alternating runs to near post, far post, and penalty spot. Each attacker gets 2 headers per rotation before swapping with the crosser.

Coaching Points

• +Time your run so you arrive at the ball rather than standing and waiting — late runs are harder to mark
• +Guide the ball with your forehead aiming across the goalkeeper toward the far corner
• +Attack the near post with glancing headers and the far post with firm redirections
• +Peel off defenders with a curved run to create separation and a cleaner contact on the ball

Progressions

1. 1.Add a passive defender to make runs more realistic and require better movement
2. 2.Vary cross delivery — driven low, lofted high, pulled back to the edge of the box
3. 3.Make it competitive — first player to score 5 headed goals wins

Equipment

Skills