Finishing Reaction Sprint Pairs

Objective

• -Sharpen reaction speed off a cue
• -Develop the first three steps
• -Add a football action after the sprint

Setup

1. 1Pairs facing each other over a start line with a target 15 yards away in a 26 x 14 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 on the target line.

How to play

1. 1Coach cue releases one player to sprint and the other to chase.
2. 2The winner takes a touch and finishes at the target.
3. 3Alternate who starts as the chaser.
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

• -Standing tall on the first step
• -Too many reps without rest
• -Rushing the shot and leaning back over the ball