⚽ Set Pieces
Long Throw — Attacking Third Routine
The long throw in the attacking third is a dead-ball attacking weapon comparable to a corner.
Long Throw — Attacking Third Routine — full pitch view
The one cue that matters
Quick execution before the defence organises
◆Why this drill works
The long throw in the attacking third is a dead-ball attacking weapon comparable to a corner. A player who can throw 15+ metres from the touchline can deliver a ball to the near or far post that the opposition must defend under pressure. This drill identifies the squad's long thrower, teaches the tw
▦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
- Identify the 1–2 players with the strongest throw. Test: throw from touchline, which player reaches farthest?
- Movement pattern A — near post: one runner attacks near post, second arrives late to far post.
- Movement pattern B — back peel: both runners peel backward drawing defenders, third runner attacks the space they vacated.
- 10 reps each pattern, named. 'NEAR!' or 'PEEL!' called before each throw.
- Live game: award 2pts for goal from named long-throw routine. Coach enforces: no name = no routine.
✓Equipment checklist
- Balls6
- Cones12
- Bibs8
✦Coaching points
Praise when you see
- Quick execution before the defence organises
- A rehearsed, clearly-called routine everyone understands
- Quality of delivery into a dangerous area
Correct when you see
- No clear routine — call and rehearse before the set piece
- Poor delivery wasting the chance
★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 Long Throw — Attacking Third Routine suitable for?
This drill suits U13–U14. Keep routines simple for younger players; older players can rehearse more sophisticated, disguised routines.
How many players do I need for Long Throw — Attacking Third Routine?
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 Long Throw — Attacking Third Routine 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.