Running shots

WHY USE IT

The idea is to improve strikers’ ability to get into scoring positions by running with the ball.

SET UP

Set up an area of 30×15 yards with a goal. Put two cones at the other end for defenders to score in. Place a cone in the first zone that players run to and the ball is passed to. We’ve used eight players.

HOW TO PLAY

Put two players next to the goal (A), put a keeper in goal and at the other end place five players (B). Player A passes to the first player B who takes a touch and shoots at goal before entering the next zone. The next player at A passes to the next player at B but this time player A runs to defend the move. The next player at A then passes but this time they are facing two attackers who can either shoot or combine. They can also go into the next zone to shoot. If the defender wins the ball at any time they can try to score in the cones at the other end.

COACHING POINTS

This works on individual skills. It gives players confidence to control the ball and shoot when not under pressure and then when under pressure. It also works on their ability to get the ball out from under their feet to hit a good shot.