⚽ First Touch · Long-Range-Control
Instep Control — Driven Balls
Receiving a driven pass — fast over 20+ yards — is a distinct and coachable skill.
Instep Control — Driven Balls — full pitch view
The one cue that matters
Body at 45 degrees to ball before it arrives — positioned to play forward
◆Why this drill works
Receiving a driven pass — 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 defenders and immediately play forward add enormous attacking value.
▦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 a driven low pass. Receiver uses instep cushion.
- First 5 reps: let it run to a comfortable stop. Diagnose technique. Cue: Instep forward, ankle firm, withdraw on contact.
- 10 reps each, alternating.
- Progress: receiver must control and immediately pass to a third player 5 yards to the side.
- Final: driven long ball from 30 yards. Receiver controls, turns, plays forward to a runner.
✓Equipment checklist
- Balls8
- Cones8
- Bibs8
✦Coaching points
Praise when you see
- Body at 45 degrees to ball before it arrives — positioned to play forward
- Control taking ball into space rather than stopping dead
Correct when you see
- Instep too rigid — ball rebounds
- Receiving square-on — the 45-degree angle opens options
★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 → |
As an Amazon Associate, SimpleDrills earns from qualifying purchases. Prices shown on Amazon at time of click.
?Frequently asked questions
What age group is Instep Control — Driven Balls suitable for?
This drill suits U14–adult. 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 — Driven Balls?
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 — Driven Balls take?
Allow around 3 minutes to set up and 12 minutes to run it — about 15 minutes in total. It fits well as the technical or main block of a session, leaving time for a warm-up and a game.