Finishing from Crosses
Finishing from crosses is a distinct skill.
◆Why this drill works
Finishing from crosses is a distinct skill. Body shape, decision between volley and header, and timing of the run are all different from through-ball finishing. Most U12-U13 strikers miss from crosses because they only ever finished from through-ball positions. This drill builds cross-finishing volume. Splitting the attacking pair between near and far post also teaches spatial discipline that carries directly into matches — a team that always sends both runners to the same zone becomes easy to defend, while one that occupies both areas forces the goalkeeper and defenders to cover more ground and make a genuine choice. Varying the delivery between flat, driven, and lofted crosses matters just as much as the finishing technique, since a striker who only ever practises against one type of ball will freeze the first time a match delivery looks different.
◇Variations and progressions
- Cutback variation — the crosser occasionally pulls the ball back to the edge of the box instead of driving it in, rewarding a third runner who arrives late for a first-time strike.
- Blind-side runs — strikers start from behind the last defender's eyeline rather than the penalty spot, practising the timing of a run that starts unmarked.
- Header-only round — for one phase, only headers count as valid finishes, forcing strikers to attack the ball in the air rather than waiting for it to drop.
- Two crossers — add a second crosser on the opposite flank so strikers must react to deliveries arriving from alternating sides without knowing which is coming next.
▦The drill in three phases
▶How to run it
- Crosser at wide right and wide left. Two strikers start from penalty spot.
- One striker goes near post, one far post — decide as ball goes wide.
- Crosser drives to 5m from byline, delivers: flat, driven low, or lofted.
- Strikers attack their zones. Coach calls: Attack it early.
- Add GK. Then add passive defender on each striker.
✦Coaching points
Praise when you see
- Strikers attacking the ball — proactive movement
- Headers with eyes open, attacking the ball at its highest point
- Clear communication about which post each striker is attacking
Correct when you see
- Both strikers going to the same zone
- Crossing from too far out
- Strikers arriving too early and standing still under the cross
★Kit for this drill — top picks compared
| Pick | Product | Best for | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Top pick | Mitre Impel Footballs (6-pack) | Match-weight balls that hold shape all season. | Check price → |
| Value | Disc Marker Cones (50-pack) | Mark zones and targets in seconds. | Check price → |
| Upgrade | Pop-Up Training Goals (pair) | Realistic target practice anywhere. | Check price → |
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