Rotation 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 28 x 22 yards area.
2. 2Number every station so players know exactly where they travel to next.
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. 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

• -Heading up and over the bar
• -Excessive repetitions
• -Staying in a favourite role and avoiding the harder one