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
Game · U12
Dribble or Shoot Decision
Teams choose between carrying through a wide gate under control and a grounded finish into a central mini goal as the defensive screen changes.
- Duration
- 12 min
- Players
- 6–12 (ideal 6)
- Dribbling
- Scanning
- Finishing
Setup
Step 1 of 2
One complete 6-player group is shown. Three blue face three red. Each attacking end has one central mini goal and one wide carrying gate; blue attacks right, red left. There is no goalkeeper. Keep space behind both target types clear.
Coaching points
- Setup: Three blue face three red. Each attacking end has one central mini goal and one wide carrying gate; blue attacks right, red left. There is no goalkeeper. Keep space behind both target types clear.
- Play: A controlled carry through an opposing wide gate scores one; a ground mini-goal finish also scores one. Gate entry must keep the ball within a step of the carrier, not a long kick through it. Read which route is open rather than always shooting from distance.
- Reset and rotation: A point, interception carried clear or ball out ends the attack. Restart with the other team in a clear central position. After 45 seconds rest, swap ends and rotate first carrier. Retrieve only with play stopped.
- Numbers: The diagram shows 6 players. With up to 12, 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: Look at the screen before the final touch. The carrying route needs close control; a finish needs a clear ground path. Both actions are options and have equal credit.
- Safety: Ground shots, secured mini goals, no goalkeeper or contact. No tackling at occupied feet or sliding. Separate neighbouring fields and stop if players converge at a gate.
Equipment
- Ball · 2 per group, including a spare
- Mini Goal · 2 per group
- Gate · 2 per group
- Flat Marker · 4 per group for field and zone corners, in addition to pictured markers
- Bib · 6 per group; colours match the pictured roles
Progressions
- Easier Defenders walk and leave one visibly available target route at the start.
- Harder Change the defenders’ starting screen between attacks so the carrier reassesses the target; keep the same safe pace and equal scoring.
