Back Post Race

Objective

• -Attack the back post
• -Time runs across the box
• -Finish crosses safely

Setup

1. 1Mark a wide crossing area with cones and a target zone at the far post.
2. 2Place a mini goal or target at the end of the run if a full-size goal is not used.
3. 3Only use heading if all players are 12 or over.

How to play

1. 1A wide player serves a cross from a marked starting point.
2. 2Two attackers time runs, one near post and one back post.
3. 3The back-post runner attacks the delivery and finishes with head or foot as appropriate.
4. 4Rotate crossers and runners after each repetition.
5. 5Keep the deliveries varied but safe.

Progressions

• +Switch To Score: two switches before scoring
• +Five Second Counter-Press: three seconds to win it back
• +Target Zone Bonus: only goals started from a pocket count
• +Add a competitive scoreline for the last round

Regressions

• -Switch To Score: switch earns a bonus point rather than being compulsory
• -Five Second Counter-Press: eight seconds and fewer opponents
• -Target Zone Bonus: widen the pocket zones
• -Simplify the area or the service until success returns

Variations

• -Switch To Score — A goal only counts after the ball has been switched from one side of the pitch to the other.
• -Five Second Counter-Press — On losing the ball the team has five seconds to win it back before dropping into shape.
• -Target Zone Bonus — Extra points for playing into marked pockets between the lines before finishing.
• -Overload Rotation — One team plays with an extra player for two minutes then the overload rotates.
• -Restart Realism — All restarts are played as in a match — throw-ins, goal kicks and corners rather than a coach ball.
• -Two-Goal Decision — Each team attacks two small goals, so defenders must decide which threat to cover.
• -Limited Touch Build-Up — Maximum three touches in your own half, unlimited once you pass the halfway line.
• -Flip the practice to the opposite side of the pitch

Common mistakes

• -Standing still in the box
• -Crosses too low or too high
• -Running across teammates