Week 72 Crossing Repititions

Instructions/Setup:

In this drill, the team works on switching play from side to side across the attacking third to create space and unbalance the defense. After a series of quick, precise passes to shift the ball horizontally, the winger receives the ball in space without immediate pressure and delivers a cross.

The winger’s target options include two mini goals: one positioned at the front post and another in the cut-back zone, encouraging varied crossing angles and quick, decisive finishing. Additionally, there is a larger goal placed deeper in the box for clipped or lofted crosses aimed behind the defensive line.

The drill focuses on effective ball circulation, creating quality crossing opportunities, and precise delivery to different attacking zones.

Coaching Notes:

• Effective Switching – Encourage quick, accurate switches of play with crisp passing to exploit space and unbalance defenders, forcing them to shift rapidly.

• Winger’s Crossing Decision – Teach wingers to assess teammate movement and positioning carefully, choosing between front post, cut-back, or deeper clipped crosses depending on the defensive shape.

• Timing of Runs – Attackers must time their runs intelligently, arriving just ahead or alongside the cross to maximize goal-scoring chances.

• Crossing Technique – Focus on delivering a variety of crosses—driven, clipped, and low—each matched to the run and positioning of attackers for optimal finish quality.

Progression 1: Add Defensive Pressure on Winger

Introduce a defender applying realistic, light pressure on the winger to simulate game intensity, forcing quicker decisions and encouraging improved composure under pressure.

Focus:

Enhances crossing accuracy, decision-making speed, and calmness under increasing defensive challenges.

Progression 2: Limit Number of Passes Before Cross

Restrict the attacking team to a maximum of three passes before the winger delivers the cross, encouraging faster ball circulation and quicker attacking transitions.

Focus:

Develops rapid playmaking skills, increases urgency, and improves ability to create quality chances under time constraints.