Week 20 Shooting in & Around the Penalty Area

Instructions/Setup:

This finishing practice focuses on developing shooting technique in and around the penalty area. The practice includes unopposed situations for players to work on their finishing technique, as well as movements for through balls and overload scenarios to replicate game-like situations. Players will also work in opposed situations, with defenders applying pressure to simulate real match conditions. The goal is to develop the players' ability to finish under various circumstances.

Coaching Notes:

• Finishing technique – Focus on striking the ball cleanly with both feet, encouraging players to aim for different areas of the goal (bottom corners, top corners, etc.).

• Movement off the ball – Players must time their runs to receive through balls and create space for themselves, ensuring they’re in the right position to finish.

• Composure under pressure – Encourage players to stay calm when finishing, even in opposed situations, focusing on placement over power.

• Decision-making – Players should assess the situation quickly and choose whether to shoot or pass, depending on the positioning of teammates and defenders.

Progression 1: Add Defenders

Introduce defenders to apply light pressure on the shooters, encouraging players to finish while under opposition pressure.

Focus: Improve finishing under pressure from defenders while maintaining composure and accuracy.

Progression 2: Overload Situation

Create an overload situation by adding an extra attacker in the final third, forcing defenders to deal with a numerical disadvantage. This allows attackers to work on finishing in overload situations.

Focus: Enhance finishing during overload situations and teach players how to exploit numerical advantages.