Greetings Coaches,

This week we take a look at FINISHING using one and two-touch play. We like using the term “finishing” as opposed to “shooting” since for many youth players the term “to shoot” implies they need kick the ball as hard as they can. “Finishing” is simply putting the ball in the back of the net using the shooting technique that the situation calls for – power shooting with the laces, bending balls, side-foot, volleys, headers etc. Players need to develop ALL the various techniques if they are to become a competant goal-scorer!
The following two variations develop finishing using one and two-touch play – various techniques including power shooting and bending balls should be incorporated.

Activity #1: One-Touch Finish
Set Up:
Two 18-yard boxes as shown below. Players are split into 4 groups and positioned approximately 6-yards from each goal-post. A supply of balls is needed next to two of the groups as shown.

Explanation:

Player (A) passes to Player (B) – at the SAME time Player (C) passes to Player (D). Players (A) and (C) move forward to get the return pass – Players (B) and (D) “lay the ball off” for the oncoming players for a one-touch shot on goal.
Players switch lines after each shot. Play is continuous with the next 4 players in line.
Coaching Points:

1. Hit the target – Accuracy before power!
2. Locate the goalkeeper – can you place the ball around him/her?
3. Accurate passing and correct “weight” of lay-off.
4. Decision making – do you need to go for “power” or a bending shot or a chipped shot etc?

Progression: Two-touch Finishing
Set Up:

Same set-up as the first activity.

Explanation:

Players (A) and (C) pass the ball, as in the previous activity, to Players (B) and (D). Players (A) and (C) sprint forward to get the return pass. Players (A) and (C) now TURN and finish in the goal behind them. Players are limited to shooting within two touches. Play is continuous with the next 4 players in line.
Players change lines after each shot on goal.

Coaching Points:

1. Receive the ball “side-ways on” or “half-turned” to allow for a good first touch and finish with the second touch.
2. Sprint forward to receive the ball outside the 18-yard box.
3. Decision making – what technique is needed – laces, bending, side-foot etc.
4. Hit the target – make the goalkeeper work!
5. Accurate passing in build-up play.