⚽ Shooting
Finishing from Crosses
Finishing from crosses is a distinct skill from finishing from through-balls.
Finishing from Crosses — full pitch view
The one cue that matters
Clean contact with the laces, not the toe
◆Why this drill works
Finishing from crosses is a distinct skill from finishing from through-balls. The body shape on arrival, the decision between volley, header and chest, and the timing of the run are all different. Most U12–U13 players who are strong technical strikers still miss headers and volleys from crosses beca
▦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
- Crosser starts wide right and wide left (alternating). Coach or passer feeds the crosser.
- Two strikers start from penalty spot — one goes near post, one far post. They decide split as ball goes wide.
- Crosser drives to 5m from byline, delivers — flat cross, driven low ball, or lofted.
- Strikers attack their zones. Coach: 'Attack it early', 'Don't wait for it to drop'.
- Progress: Add GK. Then add one passive defender on each striker.
✓Equipment checklist
- Balls8
- Cones8
✦Coaching points
Praise when you see
- Clean contact with the laces, not the toe
- Composure to place the ball rather than blasting it
- Following the shot in for any rebound
Correct when you see
- Snatching at the shot without setting the feet
- Always going for power — placement beats power near goal
★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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?Frequently asked questions
What age group is Finishing from Crosses suitable for?
This drill suits U12–U13. Younger players can use a bigger target or closer range; older players should add a defender and a goalkeeper to increase the pressure.
How many players do I need for Finishing from Crosses?
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 Finishing from Crosses take?
Allow around 3 minutes to set up and 23 minutes to run it — about 26 minutes in total. It fits well as the technical or main block of a session, leaving time for a warm-up and a game.