Written by Dave Clarke
Through Ball Timing and Finishing Game
A dynamic passing and finishing drill focusing on timing, weight of pass, and composure in front of goal.
Coaching Objectives
To improve players’ ability to time runs, deliver accurate through balls, and finish at speed. This drill enhances awareness, communication, and the connection between passer and runner to create realistic game-like attacking moments.
Drill Setup
- 25 Mins
- 8+ Players
- 2 Goals
- 2 sets Bibs
- Half pitch y
Technique Tips
- Passers should open their body shape early and look up before playing the through ball.
- Focus on the weight and angle of the pass — not too soft, not overhit.
- Runners should time their run to avoid arriving too early and getting caught “offside.”
- Use both feet for receiving and finishing.
- Encourage quick scanning and eye contact between passer and runner before execution.
What the Players Do
Set up a row of large cones across the halfway line to represent a defensive barrier with passing lanes between them. Three players start on each corner at both ends of the pitch near the goals.…Killer Through Balls
Break through defensive lines with lethal through balls that attackers can take advantage of. Maximise your team’s opportunity to score buckets of goals
Coaching Objectives
The best opportunities to score are when the striker only has the keeper left to beat. By giving your midfielders the confidence to play balls into space behind defenders you are maximising the possibility of these chances.
Drill Setup
- 20 Mins
- 8 Players
- 4 Bibs
- 60x20 y
What the Players Do
Split your players into two teams of four. The attacking team must pass the ball three times before attempting a through ball into the smaller box that a teammate must run on to. The team gains a…Play through the zones
In this drill coaches can get their players making decisions on when to pass and where to pass under pressure from defending players. There are different roles that all reflect the game in action. This helps the 7v7 to 9v9 transition.
Coaching Objectives
Attackers:
- Face and play forward as much as possible
- Control tempo
- Take mini touches
- Move to create passing lines
- Look for opportunities to play up, back and through
Defenders:
- Control and restraint
- Look for pressing triggers
- Try to block passing lines
- Force errors and try to cut out the switch
Drill Setup
- 25 Mins
- 10-14 Players
- 4 gold/yellow 2 black Bibs
- 30 x 10 y
What the Players Do
In this 3 zone game we are playing through the thirds, coaching players to use up, back and through passing moves. The dark blue and light blue teams at each end are the possession teams with gold…Continue Reading For Free
Plus Get a Free eBook
Enter your email below and we'll send you our Moments of Transition eBook immediately. PLUS you can access this drill free AND send you our regular newsletter to help you become the best coach you can be.
By clicking on subscribe now, you consent to allow Cupello to store and process
the personal information and agree with our Privacy Policy.