Finishing Front Block Tackle

Objective

• -Teach a safe, strong front block tackle
• -Time the tackle to the attacker's touch
• -Build confidence in the duel

Setup

1. 1Two facing lines six yards apart with a ball in the middle in a 20 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. 3One ball per pair.

How to play

1. 1Both players walk in and make a controlled block tackle on the ball.
2. 2Build the speed up gradually across the sets.
3. 3Finish with the winner driving the ball out of the area.
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

• -Soft ankle causing injury risk
• -Tackling with the toe
• -Rushing the shot and leaning back over the ball