Practice: Four-corner shoot-out

WHY USE IT

This fun foundation-phase session gives players plenty of opportunities to shoot on goal. It also encourages them to play with their heads up to find an open goal and to work with a team-mate.

It’s a quickfire game so gives all players chances for repetition.

Set-up

Set up a playing area relative to the age and ability of your players. Each side of the area needs a mini-goal.

Set up a gate in each corner for players to start behind. Divide players into two teams, half of each team starts in diagonally opposite corners. The coach starts on the side with the balls.

HOW TO DO IT

The coach passes the ball to one player and the first player from each corner comes into the middle of the area to play 2v2. Teams aim to score in any of the four goals as quickly as possible.

This is a quickfire game, aiming to create a lot of shots and goals at a fast pace. As soon as they have scored, or the ball goes out of play, the game starts again with the next four players.

PROGRESSIONS

Progress the game to require a pass between the two central team-mates before a shot can be taken.

The game can be further progressed by allowing the central players to pass to one of their team-mates waiting in the corners, to create a 3v2. Allow a maximum progression of 3v3.

COACHING POINTS

• Encourage players to take early shots on goal and to find a goal that isn’t being blocked by a defender.

• If players are passing, encourage them to pass quickly and early, and to create space for their team-mate.

• Players should be encouraged to play with their heads up so they can play away from traffic and find an open goal.