Transition 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 41 x 34 yards area.
2. 2Mark a second target area at the opposite end so the practice can flip direction instantly.
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. 4Coach serves a loose ball into the middle and both teams react to win it.
5. 5On every turnover the winning team has six seconds to attack the opposite target.

Progressions

• +Cut the counter window to four seconds
• +Raise the demand once the group is consistently successful

Regressions

• -Freeze the play for two seconds after each turnover to reset shape
• -Simplify the area or the service until success returns

Variations

• -Coach can serve a second ball to force an instant re-transition
• -Run the practice on the opposite side of the pitch

Common mistakes

• -Runners arriving before the cross
• -Cutbacks aimed at the keeper
• -Stopping to appeal instead of reacting to the turnover