This drill applies to cross to a real game situation. The defenders have to shut down the cross and the offensive players have to try to score. This fast pace drill helps players practice their crossing, problem-solving, quickness in the mind, and triangle passing. Utilize this drill often to help develop and enhance those skills.
Supplies:
- 15 or more players
- 10 or more balls
Set up:
- 6 players, with their balls, line up evenly along the outside of the 18-yard box.
- Two players will go to the center of the 18-yard box with all of the leftover balls.
- Split the remaining players into two teams to try and score and defend in the middle.
Instructions:
- One player on the outside will cross the ball into the people on the inside.
- The offensive players will try and score while the defensive players will try and prevent them from doing so.
- After the ball goes out of play, either the offense scored or the defensive player kicks the ball out of the box, one of the players at the middle of the top of the 18-yard box will shoot.
- During this, the players in the middle of the box will try and score, or block the ball. After this cycle, the next player will cross the ball and the play will continue in that same order.
Tips:
- Try to get hit by the ball when the cross or shots come in. The more confidence you have of letting the ball hit you can help set you apart from others.
- When crossing, have good deliveries. Don’t just kick the ball into the middle and be happy, aim for a player and cross the ball to the correct foot.
- Don’t be afraid of passing the ball when inside the area. You don’t always have to shoot the ball once it comes to you. Wait for the best opportunity to score.