GK Crosses — Coming for the Ball
Coming for crosses is the goalkeeping skill that separates capable U13 keepers from confident ones.
◆Why this drill works
Coming for crosses is the goalkeeping skill that separates capable U13 keepers from confident ones. The decision (come or stay?), the communication (calling 'KEEPER!'), and the contact (high point, two-handed catch or strong punch) all have to align in 1.5 seconds. Most grassroots keepers default to staying on their line because coming has scarier failure modes. This drill builds the technique progressively — starting with the call, then the catch, then the contact in traffic. By session 2, keepers come confidently for crosses inside their 6-yard box.
▦The drill in three phases
▶How to run it
- Set up: full goal with GK. Two servers at wide positions, 18 yards out either side. Two attackers (passive — they walk to spaces, don't contest yet) in the 6-yard box. Supply of balls at each server.
- PHASE 1 — The call (3 min). Server delivers an in-swinging cross at jogging pace. GK's only job: decide AND call. If they're coming, shout 'KEEPER!' and come. If staying, shout 'AWAY!' loud enough for defenders to hear. Don't catch yet — just call. Build the verbal habit first.
- PHASE 2 — Coming and catching, no traffic (5 min). Now GK actually comes for the cross. Two-handed catch at the highest point — arms extended, body collected behind the ball. No attackers — pure technique. Both servers alternate.
- PHASE 3 — Passive attackers in the box (5 min). Attackers walk through the box at jogging pace. They don't contest the ball but their bodies create traffic — GK has to come AROUND them, see the ball through the chaos, still catch cleanly.
- PHASE 4 — Active attackers contesting (3 min). Now one attacker tries to win the ball. GK can choose to catch, punch (one or two fists, away from goal), or stay if it's a poor cross. The decision is the focus, not the outcome.
- Final 2 minutes: 'Defender mode' — GK in goal, defenders in the box now defending the cross. GK communicates clearly: 'KEEPER!', 'YOU!', 'AWAY!'. The talking is the test.
✓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 | |
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| 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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