Free Kick Finish

Objective

• -Shoot directly from a set-piece when the chance is on
• -Strike with accuracy and calmness
• -Rebound and finish second balls

Setup

1. 1Set a shooting free kick 18-25 yards from goal.
2. 2Place a small wall of cones or players as a visual barrier.
3. 3Start one taker, one rebound runner and one goalkeeper if available.
4. 4Keep spare balls at the top of the area.

How to play

1. 1The coach sets the ball for the taker.
2. 2The taker shoots for goal using the best striking technique.
3. 3A runner follows in for any rebound or save.
4. 4If the taker chooses not to shoot, reset and try again.
5. 5Rotate the shooter every turn.

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

• -Hitting without a plan
• -Leaning back over the ball
• -Stopping after the strike