Paris Finishing In Behind

Instructions/Setup:

In this unopposed finishing drill, players work on the key movement of getting in behind the defensive line to receive a pass and finish on goal. The focus is on timing the run, positioning, and finishing technique as players look to exploit space behind the defense.

The drill begins with the player starting at the edge of the box or a designated starting point. A coach or player will play a pass into the space behind the defense (or cones in this case), and the player must time their run to get in behind and finish past the goalkeeper into the goal.

Coaching Notes:

• Timing of the Run: Encourage players to focus on their timing, making their run just as the ball is played, ensuring they are onside and in the best position to receive the pass.

• Anticipating the Pass: Players should anticipate where the ball will be played, making sure they make the run into the space at the right moment to stay ahead of any defenders.

• Finishing Under Pressure: Players should focus on staying composed when finishing, taking quick touches to set up the shot and finishing with accuracy either with their dominant foot or a first-time strike.

• Using the Space: Remind players to recognize the space they are attacking and use it wisely, focusing on staying wide or cutting in depending on the situation to create a better angle for finishing.

Progression 1: Varying Pass Types:

The coach or another player will vary the type of pass played—through balls, chipped passes, or driven balls—so players must adjust their runs and finishing technique accordingly.

Focus: This progression develops the player's ability to read different types of passes and adjust their movement and finishing technique under different circumstances.

Progression 2: Add a Defender:

Introduce a passive defender who starts behind the player receiving the ball. The defender can apply light pressure to challenge the player but is not actively defending, allowing the player to work on getting in behind while under light pressure.

Focus: This progression introduces a level of pressure to replicate match situations, helping the player work on their movement and finishing while being aware of defenders closing in.