Manchester Number 9 Finishing

Instructions/Setup:

This 4-phase finishing practice focuses on developing various types of runs and movements for center forwards, including runs in behind the defense, across the face of goal, and third-man runs. The drill encourages attackers to make different types of movements to receive the ball and finish, simulating realistic match situations where a center forward must adapt to the ever-changing dynamics of the game.

The practice involves different types of service from the players or coach, with each phase targeting a different type of attacking run. This is designed to improve the player’s timing, movement off the ball, and ability to finish in different scenarios.

Coaching Notes:

• Timing of Runs: Attackers should time their runs to perfection. Emphasize the importance of reacting quickly to the pass and making runs at the right moment to exploit space behind the defense or across the face of goal.

• Variety of Movements: Encourage attackers to vary their runs by making diagonal runs, direct runs into the space behind the defense, or cutting across the center-back to receive passes. They should understand when to make each type of run depending on the situation.

• Supporting Play: The attackers should use good communication and timing to support each other’s runs. Encourage third-man runs where a player offers an option for the ball after one or two players have already made runs.

• Finishing Under Pressure: Attackers should work on finishing with both feet and from different angles. Encourage composure in front of goal, especially when the ball is played into tight areas or when under pressure from defenders.

Progression 1: Add Defenders:

Introduce one or two defenders to challenge the attacking players as they make their runs. Defenders should attempt to block or intercept passes, increasing the intensity of the drill.

Focus: This progression simulates match conditions, where attackers must deal with pressure and timing, while defenders focus on preventing goals.

Progression 2: Increase the Speed:

Increase the speed at which the ball is played into the attackers, forcing them to make quicker decisions and movements. Reduce the time between each phase to maintain a high tempo throughout the drill.

Focus: This progression enhances decision-making under pressure and the ability to execute quick runs and finishes at a higher pace.