
Defend the lines
in Defending, Other, Small Sided Games
Anticipate the ball being played through the lines and intercept passes by blocking passing routes. Players will also need to be able to tackle and win the ball MORE
Dealing with crosses as part of a defensive unit is a large part of a goalkeeper’s job. That, is why it is vital to spend time on the practice ground helping your goalkeeper with their positioning, communication and punching and catching skills. “The cross collector” shows you how.
Use a penalty area (or equivalent size) with a goal, goalkeeper, one passer and three servers.
Warm up | Session | Developments | Game Situation | Warm Down |
---|---|---|---|---|
10-15 minutes | 10 minutes | 15 minutes | 10 minutes | 10-15 minutes |
The passer, “P”, stands at one corner of the penalty area with their back to the goalkeeper. Three servers, standing side-by-side 5 yards apart and parallel with the touch line, face “P”.
“P” passes to any of the three servers, who controls the ball before crossing. The servers should vary the crosses so the goalkeeper’s catching, punching and movement skills are tested. For example, the server nearest the byline can change the angle of delivery by playing the ball down the line and pulling the cross back, forcing the goalkeeper off his line.
Switch the delivery to the other corner of the penalty area as pictured in the middle. This may require left-footed crosses, although there’s no reason why right-footed players can’t cut back and deliver inswinging balls.
The passer releases a server to cross for the goalkeeper to catch or punch the ball.
Add a defender “1” in the penalty box to clear any crosses which bend away from the goalkeeper.
Then add another defender “2”, plus a forward “3” to attack the crosses. To progress further, add a second forward.
The passers and servers switch to the other side of the penalty area to test the goalkeeper from different angles.
Play 6v6 on a 60 yards by 40 yards pitch. Condition the game so goals scored from crosses, whether free play, corners or free kicks, count double.
The addition of an attacker and two defenders ensures the goalkeeper makes the correct decisions.