Strike From Depth

Objective

• -Arrive late to shoot
• -Strike from a pass or lay-off
• -Hit the target with power and accuracy

Setup

1. 1Set up a full-size goal with a shooting start cone 12 to 15 yards out.
2. 2Use cones to make two feeder stations at the side or top of the area.
3. 3Goalkeeper works in the goal if available.

How to play

1. 1A feeder plays into the shooter or lays the ball into their path.
2. 2The shooter arrives from depth and strikes at goal first time or after one touch.
3. 3The next shooter steps in quickly as the ball is collected.
4. 4Switch the feeder roles regularly so everyone attacks from different angles.
5. 5Keep the ball supply close for a high number of repeats.

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

• -Arriving too early and stopping
• -Leaning back at contact
• -Poor finishing body shape