Week 54 Winger & CF Combinations

Instructions/Setup:

This finishing drill focuses on a specific winger and centre forward (CF) combination play. The winger will receive the ball from deep, take a positive first touch inside, and play a pass to the centre forward. After completing the pass, the winger will make a blindside run behind the full back to receive the ball in space. The winger then attempts to finish from an angle.

Coaching Notes:

• Positive First Touch – Emphasize that the winger's first touch inside must be positive and decisive, aiming to move the ball away from pressure and create space for the inside pass to the centre forward.

• Inside Pass Timing – The winger must time the pass to the centre forward well, ensuring that the ball is played with the correct weight and at the right moment to allow the CF to make a quick turn or shot.

• Blindside Run – Encourage the winger to make a blindside run behind the full back, stressing the importance of timing and deception to beat the defender. The run should be quick and timed so that the winger can receive the ball in space without being tracked.

• Finishing from the Angle – When receiving the ball from the CF, the winger should focus on finishing with composure. Depending on the angle, encourage the use of either a first-time shot or a controlled touch before finishing, making sure to aim for the far post or create the best angle to score.

Progression 1: Add a Defender

Introduce a passive defender to pressure the winger and centre forward. This adds an element of defensive pressure, forcing the attackers to make quicker decisions and refine their combination play under match-like conditions.

Focus: Builds the ability to execute the combination under pressure, simulating real game scenarios.

Progression 2: Change the Finish

Allow the winger to either finish with a shot or cross the ball to another attacking player in the box. This progression creates a more dynamic situation where the winger has multiple finishing options, helping them improve their decision-making in the final third.

Focus: Expands the attacking options for the winger and CF combination, allowing players to adapt to different situations and increase their versatility in attack.