⚽ Set Pieces · Throw-Ins
Attacking Throw-In Routines
The throw-in in the attacking third is a set piece opportunity that most grassroots teams treat as a possession reset.
Attacking Throw-In Routines — full pitch view
The one cue that matters
Receiver showing then checking away convincingly — the dummy must deceive
◆Why this drill works
The throw-in in the attacking third is a set piece opportunity that most grassroots teams treat as a possession reset. A practised attacking throw-in routine produces immediate shots on goal more often than a corner. This drill installs two routines: the near-foot throw and the dummy-and-turn combination.
▦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
- Routine A — Near foot: receiver shows for ball, checks away, returns to feet of thrower. Thrower plays to near foot. Receiver turns and attacks.
- Routine B — Dummy and turn: receiver shows and checks away. Thrower lobbs into the space behind. Receiver spins into the ball.
- Practise both 5 reps each. Then add a passive defender and repeat.
- Progress: full game context. Call the routine name before every throw-in in the attacking third.
- Competition: how many attacking throw-in routines result in a shot within 4 passes?
✓Equipment checklist
- Balls6
- Cones8
- Bibs8
✦Coaching points
Praise when you see
- Receiver showing then checking away convincingly — the dummy must deceive
- Thrower reading the receiver's movement and timing the delivery
Correct when you see
- Throwing to the feet without the checking movement — defenders read it immediately
- Routine called too late — call it before taking the throw, not during
★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 → |
As an Amazon Associate, SimpleDrills earns from qualifying purchases. Prices shown on Amazon at time of click.
?Frequently asked questions
What age group is Attacking Throw-In Routines suitable for?
This drill suits U12–adult. Keep routines simple for younger players; older players can rehearse more sophisticated, disguised routines.
How many players do I need for Attacking Throw-In Routines?
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 Attacking Throw-In Routines 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.