West Ham Finishing the Attack

Instructions/Setup:

In this drill, players will work on quick combinations and finishing in and around the goal area. The practice is set up with 3v3 play centrally, with 3 bounce players positioned around the outside of the area. The team in possession can use the bounce players for support, but these players are limited to 1 touch and cannot score. The focus of the drill is to move the ball quickly, break down the defense with fast passes and combination play, and finish with high accuracy in the attacking third.

Coaching Notes:

• Quick Combinations – Emphasize the use of fast, sharp passes between teammates in central areas to break down the defense. The attackers should look to link up with bounce players to switch the point of attack and create goal-scoring opportunities.

• Movement and Timing – Players should focus on making well-timed runs to receive the ball in space. Encourage attacking players to make diagonal and overlapping runs, pulling defenders out of position and creating more opportunities to finish.

• Finishing Under Pressure – The attackers should be encouraged to finish quickly and with composure. Challenge them to make accurate, decisive shots on goal, using both feet when possible, while under pressure from defenders.

• Utilizing Bounce Players – Encourage the players in possession to use the bounce players wisely to maintain possession and stretch the defense. The bounce players should be used to reset play or switch the point of attack, creating space and new passing angles for the attackers.

Progression 1: Add Defender Pressure on Bounce Players

Add a defender to pressure the bounce players, forcing the attacking team to make quicker decisions and improving their ability to play under pressure.

Focus:

Improves decision-making, speed of play, and composure under pressure.

Progression 2: Add Extra Attacker in Final Phase

Add a fourth attacker in the final phase to increase the attacking overload and give more options to finish the attack, forcing defenders to cope with more attacking threats.

Focus:

Encourages team coordination and movement to exploit defensive weaknesses, improving finishing in crowded situations.