⚽ Goalkeeping
GK 1v1 Saves — Set and Hold
Most U11–U13 goalkeepers can stop straightforward shots but have poor hand technique — they parry when they should catch, they catch with one hand, and their set position means they're frequently off-balance before the shot.
GK 1v1 Saves — Set and Hold — full pitch view
The one cue that matters
Quick distribution to start the attack
◆Why this drill works
Most U11–U13 goalkeepers can stop straightforward shots but have poor hand technique — they parry when they should catch, they catch with one hand, and their set position means they're frequently off-balance before the shot. This drill isolates three save types and drills correct hand position for each one. Simple, effective, and produces visible improvement within 2 sessions.
▦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
- SET POSITION: GK sets before every serve — feet shoulder-width, weight slightly forward, hands at hip height, eyes on the ball. Check set position before each ball.
- SAVE 1 — Catch at chest: feeder rolls ball firmly at GK's chest. GK catches with two hands, fingers pointing up, elbows in. 6 reps.
- SAVE 2 — Low dive right: feeder rolls ball to GK's right side, 1m away from their feet. GK steps and reaches, hands low (fingers pointing down for low balls). 6 reps.
- SAVE 3 — Low dive left: same to the left side. 6 reps.
- Mixed: feeder varies between all three without telling GK which is coming. GK must read and react. 8 reps.
- One coaching point across the whole drill: 'two hands on every ball.' Call it once, then let the drill enforce it.
✓Equipment checklist
✦Coaching points
Praise when you see
- Quick distribution to start the attack
- Commanding the area and communicating with defenders
Correct when you see
- Staying on the line when coming out would narrow the angle
- Going to ground too early in a 1v1 — stay big and patient
★Kit for this drill — top picks compared
| Pick | Product | Best for | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Top pick | Goalkeeper Gloves (youth) | Grip and protection for keepers. | Check price → |
| Value | Training Footballs (6-pack) | Shot-stopping reps. | Check price → |
| Upgrade | Agility Ladder | Footwork and reactions. | Check price → |
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?Frequently asked questions
What age group is GK 1v1 Saves — Set and Hold suitable for?
This drill suits youth. Scale the power and distance of service to the keeper's age and ability.
How many players do I need for GK 1v1 Saves — Set and Hold?
This drill works well with around 6 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 GK 1v1 Saves — Set and Hold 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.