Rotation Cutback Finish

Objective

• -Finish from cutbacks along the ground
• -Time the run to the penalty spot
• -Improve first-time contact from wide service

Setup

1. 1Wide starting cones with a marked cutback zone by the byline in a 35 x 28 yards area.
2. 2Number every station so players know exactly where they travel to next.
3. 3Balls in both wide areas, keeper in goal.

How to play

1. 1Wide player drives to the byline and cuts the ball back.
2. 2Two runners attack the near post and penalty spot.
3. 3Alternate sides each rep.
4. 4Play starts at station one and the ball works round the numbers in order.
5. 5Every player must complete each role once before the round is scored.

Progressions

• +Reverse the rotation direction on the coach's call
• +Raise the demand once the group is consistently successful

Regressions

• -Hold roles for a full round before rotating
• -Simplify the area or the service until success returns

Variations

• -Rotate only the two hardest roles to give them extra reps
• -Run the practice on the opposite side of the pitch

Common mistakes

• -Runners arriving before the cross
• -Cutbacks aimed at the keeper
• -Staying in a favourite role and avoiding the harder one