Overload to the Open Goal
Teams use protected edge support to create a clearer finishing angle, then decide whether a placed ground shot is available.
- 14 min
- 6–12 players
Drill · U9
Pass and Shoot Relay
A three-player team relays two controlled ground passes into a placed finish, rotating the shooting role each turn.
- Duration
- 10 min
- Players
- 3–6 (ideal 3)
- Finishing
- Passing
- Teamwork
Setup
Step 1 of 2
One complete 3-player group is shown. Place three teammates at a shallow zigzag, with the last facing one secured empty mini goal. One ball begins at player 1. Nobody waits behind the goal or in a shooting lane; a clear outside path is used for retrieval.
Coaching points
- Setup: Place three teammates at a shallow zigzag, with the last facing one secured empty mini goal. One ball begins at player 1. Nobody waits behind the goal or in a shooting lane; a clear outside path is used for retrieval.
- Play: Players 1 and 2 each connect a comfortable ground pass to the next teammate, who can settle the ball before continuing. Player 3 places a ground finish. Count one team quality point when both passes are reachable and the finish is on target; collect points during a 45-second bout without racing another team.
- Reset and rotation: Stop after the finish. Retrieve by the outside route and rotate 1 to 2, 2 to 3 and 3 to 1 before a fresh ball moves. Rest after each bout; all three experience the finish equally. No player changes station while a pass or shot is travelling.
- Numbers: The diagram shows 3 players. With up to 6, use a second complete group in a separate area. Odd spare players rest off the area and rotate into a playing role every 45 seconds; everyone has equal turns.
- Coach focus: Give the next player a usable ball and enough time to set their body. The finish is the purpose of the relay, so quality of both deliveries matters more than a fast completion time.
- Safety: One active ball, controlled ground passes and placed shots, no goalkeeper or contact. Secure the goal; rotate and retrieve only after the ball stops. Keep all travelling routes free of moving players.
Equipment
- Ball · 2 per group, including a spare
- Mini Goal · 1 per group
- Flat Marker · 4 per group for field and zone corners, in addition to pictured markers
- Bib · 3 per group; colours match the pictured roles
Progressions
- Easier Move the stations closer and let every receiver stop the ball fully.
- Harder Ask the team to call the receiver’s name before each pass and alternate the comfortable finishing foot; keep settled control and stopped rotation.
