Week 58 4 Phase Finishing

Instructions/Setup:

This practice focuses on a mixture of unopposed and opposed finishing. The first 2 phases involve unopposed finishes, allowing players to focus on technique and timing. In the final 2 phases, a defender joins the practice, making the finishing scenarios opposed. The drill is designed to replicate real-game finishing situations, starting with basic techniques and progressing to more challenging, defended opportunities.

Coaching Notes:

• Technique in Unopposed Phases

During the unopposed phases, emphasize clean technique, including proper body positioning and striking technique. Encourage players to focus on accuracy and composure, especially when finishing inside the box. The lack of defensive pressure should allow them to work on their first touch and finish with precision.

• Composure Under Pressure

Once the defender joins in the final 2 phases, remind players to maintain composure when finishing under pressure. The defender will force them to make quicker decisions, so encourage players to focus on staying calm and making decisive, confident strikes on goal.

• Creating Space for the Finish

Encourage attackers to work on creating space between themselves and the defender. In the opposed phases, players should be aware of their positioning and look to make quick, intelligent movements to create space for a clean shot. This could be through feints, quick changes of direction, or timed runs into open areas.

• Finishing from Various Angles

Since the defender will provide different types of pressure in the opposed phases, encourage players to adjust their finishing technique based on the angle and distance from goal. Whether they’re finishing a cross, cutting inside, or taking a shot from a tight angle, players should practice various finishing methods such as driven shots, chips, and first-time finishes.

Progression 1: Add More Defenders

After completing the original drill with one defender, progress to adding another defender or having the defender pressure the player from different angles (e.g., from the side or behind).

Focus: This progression simulates more complex game situations, where attackers must deal with multiple defenders and adjust their approach accordingly.

Progression 2: Limit Time to Finish

In the opposed phases, introduce a time limit (e.g., 3-5 seconds) for players to take a shot after receiving the ball.

Focus: This progression increases the intensity of the practice, encouraging players to make quick decisions and focus on rapid execution under pressure.