Week 55 3rd Man Finishing

Instructions/Setup:

This finishing practice focuses on 3rd man attacking combinations, giving players plenty of opportunities to finish. The centre forward will play a set pass to a teammate before making a sharp movement around a mannequin. After the movement, the centre forward will receive a cut-back pass and finish on goal.

Coaching Notes:

• Timing of the Set Pass – The centre forward should play the initial set pass with good weight and timing, ensuring that the receiving player can control the ball and move it forward towards the final action.

• Sharp Movement – After playing the set pass, the centre forward must make a sharp, purposeful movement around the mannequin. This should be a quick, decisive change of direction, simulating a real game situation where the CF needs to shake off the defender and create space.

• Receiving the Cut-Back – The centre forward should focus on timing their movement to meet the ball at the right moment, using their body to shield the defender and create space to finish cleanly.

• Finishing with Composure – Once the centre forward receives the cut-back, they should focus on finishing with composure, whether it’s a first-time shot or a controlled touch followed by a finish. Encourage different types of finishes based on the situation, such as low drives or chips.

Progression 1: Add a Defender

Introduce a passive defender who starts at a distance but pressures the centre forward during their sharp movement. The defender will attempt to make the centre forward's cut-back more challenging by closing space or influencing the shot.

Focus: Adds pressure to the movement and finish, encouraging the centre forward to remain composed under defensive pressure.

Progression 2: Vary the Pass

Change the set pass to a more dynamic ball, such as a lofted or diagonal pass, requiring the centre forward to adjust their movement and touch before completing the combination.

Focus: Develops the centre forward's ability to adapt to different types of passes and still execute the 3rd man combination effectively in varied situations.