Underload 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 33 x 26 yards area.
2. 2Add one extra defender to the working area and mark their start position with a flat cone.
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. 4The attacking group starts a player short, so every entry pass has to be sharp.
5. 5Defenders score a point for every clean turnover; attackers need three clean end actions to win the round.

Progressions

• +Add a second extra defender
• +Raise the demand once the group is consistently successful

Regressions

• -Even the numbers up again
• -Simplify the area or the service until success returns

Variations

• -Attackers get one 'free pass' per round they can call
• -Run the practice on the opposite side of the pitch

Common mistakes

• -Runners arriving before the cross
• -Cutbacks aimed at the keeper
• -Trying to beat two players instead of releasing early