Move, Beat, Finish
Players approach a defender marker at speed, use one chosen change of direction, and carry the ball into a composed finish.
- 12 min
- 4–14 players
Drill · U8
Placement Stations
Pairs practise balanced ground strikes from a stationary ball, choosing one of two empty targets in their own lane.
- Duration
- 8 min
- Players
- 4–8 (ideal 4)
- Finishing
- Ball Mastery
Setup
Step 1 of 2
One complete 4-player group is shown. Two independent lanes each have a shooter, a waiting partner to the side, one stationary ball and two secured empty mini goals. Nobody stands in or behind a goal; the partner waits behind the ball and outside the shooting route.
Coaching points
- Setup: Two independent lanes each have a shooter, a waiting partner to the side, one stationary ball and two secured empty mini goals. Nobody stands in or behind a goal; the partner waits behind the ball and outside the shooting route.
- Play: The shooter names a target, checks the lane is clear and places a ground shot towards it without an approach dribble. One on-target ground attempt earns a personal point. After the ball stops, both players walk around the outside to collect it and exchange roles.
- Reset and rotation: Alternate after every attempt. Use four attempts each, then rest and move the stationary starting ball a little sideways within the same lane. Start again only when both players are behind the ball and the goal area is empty.
- Numbers: The diagram shows 4 players. With up to 8, 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: Show a comfortable standing-foot position beside the ball and a balanced follow-through. Ask where the player intends the ball to go; celebrate a controlled accurate contact rather than force.
- Safety: Ground strikes only, no goalkeeper or defender. Secure all goals, keep lanes separated and pause both lanes before any ball retrieval. Reduce distance whenever balance or control is lost.
Equipment
- Ball · 3 per group, including a spare
- Mini Goal · 4 per group
- Flat Marker · 12 per group for field and zone corners, in addition to pictured markers
- Bib · 4 per group; colours match the pictured roles
Progressions
- Easier Use one wider target and move the stationary ball nearer.
- Harder Alternate the named target or use the other comfortable foot; keep the same gentle placed strike.
