One On One With The Keeper

Objective

• -Stay composed in a 1v1 with the keeper
• -Choose the right finish
• -Attack the space at speed

Setup

1. 1Starting cone thirty yards from goal, keeper on the line.
2. 2Balls at the start cone.
3. 3Cones marking the attacking channel.

How to play

1. 1Player drives at goal and finishes 1v1.
2. 2Alternate central and angled starts.
3. 3Six repetitions each with rest.

Progressions

• +Two-Touch Limit: drop to one touch in the central area
• +Weak Foot Only: add a defender to raise the pressure
• +Tempo Clock: cut the clock to four seconds
• +Add a competitive scoreline for the last round

Regressions

• -Two-Touch Limit: allow three touches while the picture is learned
• -Weak Foot Only: static, unopposed reps before adding movement
• -Tempo Clock: extend the clock to ten seconds
• -Simplify the area or the service until success returns

Variations

• -Two-Touch Limit — Players are limited to two touches — one to control, one to release.
• -Weak Foot Only — Every touch, pass and finish must be with the weaker foot.
• -Tempo Clock — The ball must reach the end action inside six seconds or the rep restarts.
• -Scan and Cue — The coach shows a colour or number and the receiver must call it before their first touch.
• -Shadow Pressure — A shadow defender applies half pressure and can win the ball only after the first touch.
• -Score Challenge — Run it as a timed competition — pairs or teams count successful reps and compare scores.
• -1-to-1 Session — Run as an individual session: coach serves, one player works through the reps with rest built in.
• -Flip the practice to the opposite side of the pitch

Common mistakes

• -Rushing the shot from too far
• -Slowing down and letting the keeper set
• -Always choosing the same finish