Crossing & Finishing

Description

Wide players deliver crosses from the flanks while attackers make timed runs into the box to finish. Develops crossing technique, movement in the box, and heading/volleying. Rotate crossers and finishers regularly.

Setup

Full goal with GK. Two wide channels marked on both sides using cones. A crosser on each wing with a supply of balls. 2-3 attackers start centrally at the edge of the box. On the coach whistle, the crosser delivers and attackers make runs.

Coaching Points

• +Crosser: look up before crossing — pick out the runner, do not just send it in
• +Crosser: aim for the area between the GK and the defense (the "corridor of uncertainty")
• +Attacker: time your run — arrive as the ball arrives, do not stand and wait
• +Attacker: attack the front post or back post with pace, not the middle of the goal
• +Near post = driven cross, far post = lofted cross

Progressions

1. 1.Add a defender in the box marking the attackers
2. 2.Alternate sides — left cross then right cross
3. 3.Low crosses only (driven along the ground)
4. 4.Attacker pulls back to the edge of box for a volley/half-volley

Equipment

Skills