Wolves Free Kick Routine

Instructions/Setup:

This unopposed free kick routine drill is designed to help players rehearse and refine various attacking free kick patterns from wide or central areas. The team will focus on the key components of a successful set-piece routine including delivery, movement, and timing. Players will position themselves according to the selected routine (e.g., near post runs, edge of the box setups, far post overloads) and execute planned movements without opposition.

The free kick taker will deliver the ball into a designated area, aiming for the appropriate target zone based on the play design. Meanwhile, attacking players will make synchronized runs to either meet the delivery or create decoy movements to free up teammates. This unopposed format allows the team to work on precise timing and technical execution without the distraction of defenders.

Coaching Notes:

• Run Timing & Synchronization:

Attackers must time their runs perfectly in relation to the free kick taker’s delivery. Runs should be coordinated so that the ball is met at the optimal point, with staggered timing to create different attacking options.

• Varied Movements:

Players should rehearse a variety of runs including curved runs, late arrivals at the far post, and quick darts into central zones. Decoy runs and quick direction changes are essential to unsettle defenders in real match scenarios.

• Delivery Execution:

The free kick taker should focus on consistent and accurate delivery, using different techniques such as whipped, floated, or driven balls based on the routine. The quality of the ball into the target area is crucial to the success of the routine.

• Role Clarity:

Ensure every player knows their specific job in the routine — whether it’s to attack the ball, screen a defender, make a decoy run, or be in position for a second ball. Clarity in roles improves execution and reduces hesitation.

• Communication:

Strong verbal and non-verbal communication is essential between the free kick taker and the runners. Agreed cues or signals should trigger the movement so that everyone is synced to the delivery.

Progression 1: Add Light Pressure from Defenders

Introduce passive defenders to lightly mark the runners and challenge aerially. Their role is to track movements and apply mild resistance without aggressively disrupting play.

Focus: This adds realism and forces the attacking team to fine-tune timing and positioning under game-like conditions while still maintaining the structure of the routine.