Finishing End Zone Game

Objective

• -Reward forward passing and running with the ball
• -Create a game that works without goals
• -Encourage runs beyond the defensive line

Setup

1. 1A pitch with a three-yard end zone at each end in a 38 x 28 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 with the coach, two sets of bibs.

How to play

1. 1Teams score by controlling the ball inside the opposition end zone.
2. 2The ball must be passed into the zone, not dribbled in.
3. 3Restart immediately from the conceding team.
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

• -Runs made too early
• -Passing into the zone with nobody there
• -Rushing the shot and leaning back over the ball