Sharp Shooters

By David Clarke

Executed at speed, this is a dangerous attacking move that will help your players use a delicate first touch to beat defenders and set up goalscoring opportunities.

WHY USE IT

This drill helps players get to know each other – when they are going to pass, and where and when they are going to move. It works on the technique a striker will use to create and execute a goalscoring chance.

SET UP

Use four players including your goalkeeper. You need balls, cones and a goal. Position a pole or cone (or a mannequin if you have one) just outside the penalty area.

HOW TO PLAY

On the coach’s command, the two servers exchange passes. Server B passes to the striker’s right. As the ball is passed, the striker feigns to go to his right and then goes left to receive the ball, which he controls on the turn. His second touch must be a strike at goal. Work one striker for five attempts and then switch players.

TECHNIQUE

The striker’s movement is vital, creating a yard of space to receive the ball, then controlling it quickly and smoothly to get past the defender and shoot. Timing is key: the timing of the pass, the dummy and the run. In a match all these parts make up the move – success comes when they all work together.