Dortmund Finishing & SAQ

Instructions/Setup:

This finishing drill focuses on combining speed, agility, and quick decision-making with a final shot on goal. The drill begins with the attacking player playing a forward pass to a second player before immediately moving through a set of poles in a speed, agility, and quickness (SAQ) drill. As the first player moves through the poles, the second player passes the ball to a third player, who then sets the ball back to the original player just as they exit the poles. The original player, now positioned for a shot, finishes the drill with a strike on goal.

This drill emphasizes the importance of movement off the ball, quick transitions, and sharp finishing under pressure. The SAQ element helps players improve their footwork and agility, ensuring they can be dynamic both with and without the ball, while the final shot allows for precision under game-like conditions.

Coaching Notes:

• Quick Forward Pass: The player making the initial pass should focus on a crisp, forward-thinking ball to set up the second player. The ball should be delivered with enough pace for the receiver to move it forward quickly.

• SAQ Focus: When going through the poles, ensure the player uses controlled, sharp movements to stay agile and maintain balance, enabling a quick transition to the final shot.

• Timing the Set: The third player’s pass back to the original player should be timed precisely so that the player exiting the poles can take the shot in stride, maximizing the shot’s power and accuracy.

• Shot Technique: Instruct the player receiving the ball after the SAQ to focus on striking the ball cleanly with proper technique, aiming for placement over power, while keeping their composure after the dynamic movement.

Progression 1: Add a Defender:

Introduce a defender to apply light pressure on the player taking the shot. This progression encourages players to stay composed under pressure and practice finishing with a defender closing in.

Focus: Builds confidence in finishing under pressure, simulating a real game scenario where defenders challenge the striker.

Progression 2: Vary the Poles Layout:

Adjust the layout and number of poles for the SAQ section, making it more complex or varied to challenge the player’s agility and coordination further, improving their ability to navigate through tight spaces.

Focus: Enhances footwork and agility, ensuring players can transition smoothly from technical skill to game-speed execution.