Finishing Third Man Box

Objective

• -Coach the third-man run and the pass that sets it up
• -Improve timing between the set and the release
• -Break lines with a forward pass

Setup

1. 1A box with a target player on each end line in a 28 x 24 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. 3Balls at both end lines, bibs for the middle defenders.

How to play

1. 1Play in to the front player, who sets back to a supporting team-mate.
2. 2The third player then receives the forward pass beyond the defensive line.
3. 3Sequence resets from the opposite end line.
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

• -Third runner going too early
• -Set pass played into feet with no angle
• -Rushing the shot and leaning back over the ball