Transition 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 34 x 28 yards area.
2. 2Mark a second target area at the opposite end so the practice can flip direction instantly.
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. 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

• -Heading up and over the bar
• -Excessive repetitions
• -Stopping to appeal instead of reacting to the turnover