Crossing & Finishing Timing Drill

Title: Crossing & Finishing Timing Drill Category: Finishing / Wide Play Age Tags: U11, U13, U15, U17, 19U+ Skill Tags: Crossing, Finishing, Timing of Runs, Off-Ball Movement, Attacking Awareness Purpose: Replicate game-like crossing situations while teaching attackers to time runs and finish from different service angles. Setup: Use one half of the field with full-size goal and goalkeeper. Wide player positioned near the flank with supply of balls. One or two attackers start centrally outside the box. Optional passive defender for progression. Drill Steps: • Wide player dribbles and delivers a cross into the box. • Attacker times run to meet the cross. • Finish first time if possible. • Rotate roles after each repetition. • Continue from alternating sides. Coaching Points: • Time run to arrive as ball enters danger area. • Attack space between defenders. • Finish with different surfaces (inside, laces, thigh, etc.). • Younger groups: no heading allowed. • Crosser delivers with accuracy and proper pace. Variations: • Add second attacker for near and far post runs. • Add passive or active defender. • Require specific type of cross (driven, lofted, cut-back). • Limit touches before shot. Time: 10–15 minutes