⚽ Set Pieces
Free Kick Over and Around the Wall
Most grassroots free kicks in the danger zone are either struck poorly or are entirely predictable — the taker runs up and hits it, with no technique variation and no element of surprise.
Free Kick Over and Around the Wall — full pitch view
The one cue that matters
Quality of delivery into a dangerous area
◆Why this drill works
Most grassroots free kicks in the danger zone are either struck poorly or are entirely predictable — the taker runs up and hits it, with no technique variation and no element of surprise. This drill trains three distinct free kick types that require genuinely different techniques and create different problems for the goalkeeper. A squad that can execute two of the three reliably has a real set-piece weapon.
▦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 UP: Wall of 3 at regulation distance (10 yards). GK on near post. Taker at 22 yards central.
- TYPE 1 — Over the wall: taker strikes under the ball to create backspin and dip. Ball must clear the wall and drop sharply. Key technique: strike low through the ball, follow through down.
- TYPE 2 — Around the wall: taker strikes across the ball to curl it around the right side of the wall. Left foot for right side, right foot for left side. 4 reps each foot.
- TYPE 3 — Dummy and strike: two players. Player A runs over the ball (dummy). Player B strikes from behind player A at a new angle. The dummy moves the wall's sight line, creating a briefly unguarded corridor.
- Each type: 6 reps, tracking on-target percentage.
- Competition: taker with highest on-target % from each type wins the session title.
✦Coaching points
Praise when you see
- Quality of delivery into a dangerous area
- Timed movement to attack the ball, not standing still
- Quick execution before the defence organises
Correct when you see
- No clear routine — call and rehearse before the set piece
- Poor delivery wasting the chance
- Static players — set pieces need timed, deliberate movement
★Kit for this drill — top picks compared
| Pick | Product | Best for | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Top pick | Free Kick Mannequins | Realistic wall practice. | Check price → |
| Value | Training Footballs (6-pack) | Dead-ball reps. | Check price → |
| Upgrade | Pop-Up Goals (pair) | Target practice. | Check price → |
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?Frequently asked questions
What age group is Free Kick Over and Around the Wall suitable for?
This drill suits youth. Keep routines simple for younger players; older players can rehearse more sophisticated, disguised routines.
How many players do I need for Free Kick Over and Around the Wall?
This drill works well with around 10 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 Free Kick Over and Around the Wall 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.