⚽ First Touch
Instep Control — Receiving Driven Passes
Receiving a driven pass travelling fast over 20+ yards is a distinct and coachable skill.
Instep Control — Receiving Driven Passes — full pitch view
The one cue that matters
Cushioned touch that kills the pace of the ball
◆Why this drill works
Receiving a driven pass travelling fast over 20+ yards is a distinct and coachable skill. The instep cushion, the diagonal body shape that takes the ball away from an approaching defender, and the immediate second action are the components. At U14+, players who can receive driven balls from defender
▦The drill in three phases
1Setup
Starting positions — players, zones and equipment in place.
2Action
Movement begins — players run, dribble and create the pattern.
3Finish
The end action — pass, shot or outcome the drill builds toward.
Ball carrierAttackersDefendersPass / dribbleShot
▶How to run it
- Pairs, 20 yards apart. Server plays driven low pass at normal passing pace. Receiver uses instep cushion.
- First 5 reps: let it run to comfortable stop. Diagnose technique. Then correct: instep slightly forward, ankle firm, withdraw on contact.
- 10 reps each, alternating. Coach circulates. Cue: 'Meet it halfway, withdraw on contact'.
- Progress: receiver must control and immediately pass to third player 5 yards to their side. No extra touch.
- Final: driven long ball from 30 yards. Receiver controls, turns, plays forward to player making a run.
✓Equipment checklist
- Balls6
- Cones12
- Bibs8
✦Coaching points
Praise when you see
- Cushioned touch that kills the pace of the ball
- Receiving on the half-turn to play forward quickly
- Using the correct surface for the situation
Correct when you see
- Taking the touch toward a defender instead of into space
- Standing square and getting trapped — receive on the half-turn
★Kit for this drill — top picks compared
| Pick | Product | Best for | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Top pick | Training Footballs (6-pack) | Consistent touch reps. | Check price → |
| Value | Rebounder Net | Solo control practice. | Check price → |
| Upgrade | Marker Cones (50-pack) | Mark receiving zones. | Check price → |
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?Frequently asked questions
What age group is Instep Control — Receiving Driven Passes suitable for?
This drill suits U14–U15. Younger players can receive from a gentle, rolled pass; older players should receive firmer, more varied service under pressure.
How many players do I need for Instep Control — Receiving Driven Passes?
This drill works well with around 12 players. With fewer, reduce the groups or rotate players through; with more, set up multiple stations so everyone stays active rather than queuing.
How long does Instep Control — Receiving Driven Passes take?
Allow around 3 minutes to set up and 15 minutes to run it — about 18 minutes in total. It fits well as the technical or main block of a session, leaving time for a warm-up and a game.