Finishing Attacking Header Target

Objective

• -Direct headers downwards towards goal
• -Time the jump to meet the ball at the peak
• -Keep heading volume within guidance

Setup

1. 1A near-post and back-post target zone in front of goal in a 32 x 26 yards area.
2. 2Set a goal at the end of the area with a keeper or a target zone if no keeper is available.
3. 3Soft balls with the wide server, keeper in goal.

How to play

1. 1Server clips the ball to the marked target zone.
2. 2The striker attacks it and heads downwards into the goal.
3. 3Rotate after two headers each so volume stays low.
4. 4Every sequence starts with a pass out and ends with a strike on goal.
5. 5Goals score one, first-time finishes score two, and rebounds must be followed in.

Progressions

• +Cap the sequence at one touch before the strike
• +Raise the demand once the group is consistently successful

Regressions

• -Remove the keeper and finish into a wide target goal
• -Simplify the area or the service until success returns

Variations

• -Coach can throw in a second ball for an instant rebound finish
• -Run the practice on the opposite side of the pitch

Common mistakes

• -Heading up and over the bar
• -Excessive repetitions
• -Rushing the shot and leaning back over the ball