Inter Into the Path Finishing

Instructions/Setup:

This finishing drill focuses on movement off the ball and finishing under minimal pressure. The drill setup involves 4 poles, with 3 of them occupied and 2 goals positioned at opposite ends of the grid. The drill begins when a player moves from an occupied pole to the vacant one. Upon reaching the vacant pole, the player receives a pass and takes an unopposed shot on goal. Once the finish is completed, the pattern continues, with the next vacant pole being filled and the process repeating.

This drill encourages players to make intelligent runs off the ball, timing their movements to receive the pass in an ideal position for a clean shot on goal.

Coaching Notes:

• Movement Off the Ball: Encourage players to make dynamic, purposeful runs towards the vacant pole. Timing and positioning are key for receiving the ball in a goal-scoring area. Players should work on their anticipation to ensure they arrive at the pole in sync with the pass.

• Finishing Technique: Focus on quick, composed finishing with both feet. Players should aim to hit the target regardless of the angle, ensuring they keep the shot low and focused on placement over power. Encourage players to finish with calmness, aiming for the corners of the goal.

• Passing and Timing: Emphasize the importance of accurate and timed passes. The player delivering the ball should focus on precision and speed to ensure that the receiving player is in a good position to shoot. The player receiving the pass should focus on controlling it and getting the shot off quickly.

• Decision Making: Players should practice different types of finishes, whether it's a driven shot, a finesse shot, or a first-time strike, depending on the scenario. Encourage players to recognize when to shoot early and when to take a touch to set up a better angle.

Progression 1: Add a Defender:

Introduce a defender into the drill who starts a few yards away from the shooter. The defender's role is to apply light pressure, forcing the attacking player to be quicker with their decision-making and finishing.

Focus: This progression simulates real-game pressure, encouraging players to get the shot off quickly while adjusting to defensive pressure.