Pass And Strike

Objective

• -Link a pass with a controlled finish
• -Improve timing of movement before the shot
• -Use the first touch to prepare scoring

Setup

1. 1Mark a rectangle with two shooting zones at opposite ends.
2. 2Place one mini goal in each end zone.
3. 3Split players into two groups at one end with balls and bibs.
4. 4Set one passer and one finisher in the central area.

How to play

1. 1The passer plays into the finisher's feet.
2. 2The finisher takes a first touch into space and shoots at the mini goal.
3. 3The passer then follows the next pass and becomes the finisher.
4. 4Keep the pattern moving from one end zone to the other.
5. 5Encourage players to change the angle of their run each time.

Progressions

• +Two-Touch Limit: drop to one touch in the central area
• +Weak Foot Only: add a defender to raise the pressure
• +Tempo Clock: cut the clock to four seconds
• +Add a competitive scoreline for the last round

Regressions

• -Two-Touch Limit: allow three touches while the picture is learned
• -Weak Foot Only: static, unopposed reps before adding movement
• -Tempo Clock: extend the clock to ten seconds
• -Simplify the area or the service until success returns

Variations

• -Two-Touch Limit — Players are limited to two touches — one to control, one to release.
• -Weak Foot Only — Every touch, pass and finish must be with the weaker foot.
• -Tempo Clock — The ball must reach the end action inside six seconds or the rep restarts.
• -Scan and Cue — The coach shows a colour or number and the receiver must call it before their first touch.
• -Shadow Pressure — A shadow defender applies half pressure and can win the ball only after the first touch.
• -Score Challenge — Run it as a timed competition — pairs or teams count successful reps and compare scores.
• -1-to-1 Session — Run as an individual session: coach serves, one player works through the reps with rest built in.
• -Flip the practice to the opposite side of the pitch

Common mistakes

• -Standing still before receiving
• -Poorly weighted passes
• -Finishing without setting up the ball