Set Pieces

Throw-In Routines

Keep the ball from a throw-in

Set Pieces
Possession
Attacking
Premium

Keep the ball from a throw-in. Set up the area, follow the steps and use the coaching points below.

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Set Pieces
Possession
Attacking
Skill Practice
Intermediate
Advanced
Full Squad
Minimal Equipment
Youth Friendly
Adult Suitable

Age

Under 9 to Adults

Duration

15 min

Players

6-16

Area / pitch size

Wide channel, 30 x 20 yards

Difficulty

Intermediate / Advanced

Equipment

Balls, Cones, Bibs

Coaching focus

Keep the ball from a throw-in

Objective

  • -Keep the ball from a throw-in
  • -Create movement to receive
  • -Progress up the pitch from the restart

Setup

  1. 1Mark a wide channel with a throw-in line.
  2. 2Attacking group of four with two defenders.
  3. 3Balls at the throw-in position.

How to play

  1. 1Practise three options: down the line, into feet with a set, and a switch inside.
  2. 2Attackers score by reaching the target zone.
  3. 3Ten throws then swap.

Coaching points

  • -Create the space with a short movement before showing
  • -Thrower follows the throw to support
  • -Receive with the body open where possible

Progressions

  • +Switch To Score: two switches before scoring
  • +Five Second Counter-Press: three seconds to win it back
  • +Target Zone Bonus: only goals started from a pocket count
  • +Add a competitive scoreline for the last round

Regressions

  • -Switch To Score: switch earns a bonus point rather than being compulsory
  • -Five Second Counter-Press: eight seconds and fewer opponents
  • -Target Zone Bonus: widen the pocket zones
  • -Simplify the area or the service until success returns

Variations

  • -Switch To Score — A goal only counts after the ball has been switched from one side of the pitch to the other.
  • -Five Second Counter-Press — On losing the ball the team has five seconds to win it back before dropping into shape.
  • -Target Zone Bonus — Extra points for playing into marked pockets between the lines before finishing.
  • -Overload Rotation — One team plays with an extra player for two minutes then the overload rotates.
  • -Restart Realism — All restarts are played as in a match — throw-ins, goal kicks and corners rather than a coach ball.
  • -Two-Goal Decision — Each team attacks two small goals, so defenders must decide which threat to cover.
  • -Limited Touch Build-Up — Maximum three touches in your own half, unlimited once you pass the halfway line.
  • -Flip the practice to the opposite side of the pitch

Common mistakes

  • -Everyone standing still on the throw
  • -Throwing straight to a marked player
  • -No support behind the receiver

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