Lazio 3rd Man Run & Finish

Instructions/Setup:

This unopposed finishing practice focuses on developing 3rd man attacking combinations, allowing players to practice quick and effective link-up play in the final third. Play begins with a 3rd man combination, where one player plays a pass into a teammate who then makes a return pass to the original player. This player then delivers a wide pass into the box, where another player finishes off the play with a shot.

The practice runs from bottom to top and then vice versa, utilizing the same two central players for the 3rd man combinations. These two players should ideally be your central midfielders, as they are often responsible for initiating and linking attacks in game situations. The setup includes two goals placed 40 yards apart to replicate match conditions and encourage high-intensity movements.

Coaching Notes:

• 3rd Man Movement: Emphasize the importance of intelligent runs off the ball. The player receiving the first pass should look to play a quick combination and immediately look for space to receive the return pass. This movement should be timed to perfection to ensure that the player receiving the ball is in a good position to cross or finish.

• Wide Delivery: The player making the wide pass must focus on accuracy and timing. Encourage them to deliver the ball into a dangerous area, targeting the run of the attacking players in the box. The cross should be driven or floated depending on the position of the attackers.

• Finishing Under Pressure: The two players in the box should focus on their finishing technique, aiming for composure under pressure. Encourage a variety of finishes, including volleys, headers, or first-time shots, to replicate real game scenarios.

• Timing and Fluidity: This drill requires excellent timing from the central players to maintain fluidity in the attacking moves. Encourage players to focus on maintaining a good rhythm and working together to create overlapping runs and passing options.

Progression 1: Add a Defender:

Introduce a passive defender into the box, allowing them to apply light pressure on the players attempting to finish. This will simulate game pressure and encourage the attacking players to make quicker decisions when finishing.

Focus: This progression adds a layer of realism to the drill, allowing players to work on finishing under pressure and adjusting to defensive situations.