Week 13 Final 3rd Combos

Instructions/Setup:

This pattern of play practice is centered on an attacking 5, using the full width of the pitch as seen in a 3-4-3 or 3-5-2 formation. The focus is on attacking combinations in the final third, particularly passes into the striker from wide areas, and emphasizes movement ahead of the ball. The practice begins with the ball being played into a wide player, who then looks to pass into the central striker.

As the ball is played into the wide areas, the forward players should look to create space through intelligent movement. The wide players can cross or pass into the striker, who will then combine with other attackers in the area to create a goal-scoring opportunity. The key is for the wide players to execute accurate crosses or through passes, while the central attacking players must time their runs to get into dangerous areas.

Coaching Notes:

• Movement ahead of the ball – Encourage attackers to make runs that pull defenders out of position, creating space for themselves and teammates. The striker should look to time their runs to receive the ball in a dangerous position, while the wingers should focus on getting to the byline or cutting inside to provide more options.

• Passing accuracy and weight – The wide player should focus on delivering a precise pass or cross into the striker’s path. The weight of the pass is crucial, as it should allow the striker to make a smooth and controlled touch, setting them up for a shot or a combination play with other attackers.

• Creating angles for support – The wide players should look to create passing lanes and angles for the player receiving the ball in the middle. The central players should look to make supporting runs, either into the box or into spaces to provide short passing options.

• Timing of runs – The timing of the striker's movement into the box is critical. Encourage the striker to anticipate the pass and move accordingly. The striker should always be ready to receive the ball in a way that allows them to quickly turn and finish or combine with a teammate.

• Finishing under pressure – The striker, once receiving the pass, should focus on composure in the final third. Whether it’s a first-time shot or a controlled touch, finishing accurately under pressure is a key aspect of this drill.

Progression 1: Add a Defender

Introduce a single defender or two defenders who will look to pressure the striker or intercept the pass. The attacking players must work on their timing and decision-making to beat the defensive pressure, either by making a quick pass, combining, or finishing under tight conditions.

Focus: Improve the attacking players' ability to combine and finish under pressure while being mindful of the defenders’ positioning.

Progression 2: Include a Goalkeeper

Introduce a goalkeeper into the practice to simulate match conditions. The striker will now need to focus on their finishing ability, making sure they place the ball accurately past the keeper after receiving the pass from the wide player. The wide players will also be encouraged to focus on delivering high-quality crosses or passes to set up a potential goal-scoring opportunity.

Focus: Enhance finishing accuracy, and improve players' ability to deliver crosses or passes into the final third with pace and precision, simulating real-game scenarios.