⚽ Set Pieces
Throw-In Routines
A typical 9v9 match has 30+ throw-ins.
Throw-In Routines — full pitch view
The one cue that matters
Quality of delivery into a dangerous area
◆Why this drill works
A typical 9v9 match has 30+ throw-ins. Most grassroots teams give the ball away on at least half — the receiver is closely marked, the thrower has no plan, panic ensues. Drilling two simple routines (down-the-line and check-and-go) cuts losses by half within a single session. The principle: thrower has a target by default, all other players move to create space. By U11 every player understands their role on a throw without a word said.
▦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 1 — Down-the-line: thrower throws to the nearest attacker (A1) running down the touchline.
- A1 takes one touch forward, plays into A2 (centre).
- A2 plays through to A3 attacking the target gate.
- Reset. Walk through it once with no defenders.
- Add defenders, run live for 3 reps.
- ROUTINE 2 — Check-and-go: A2 (centre) checks back towards the thrower.
- Defender follows; A2 dummies, A3 sprints behind into the space.
- Thrower lobs past A2 to A3.
- 3 reps each routine. Switch sides of pitch (other foot for the thrower).
✓Equipment checklist
✦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
- Taking too long and letting the defence set
- 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 Throw-In Routines 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 Throw-In Routines?
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 Throw-In Routines 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.