⚽ Sole Control
Sole Stop and Scan
Pairs passing drill where every receiving player sole-stops the ball, looks up (coach signals a number on fingers), calls it out, then passes back.
Sole Stop and Scan — full pitch view
The one cue that matters
Light sole contact keeping the ball close
◆Why this drill works
Pairs passing drill where every receiving player sole-stops the ball, looks up (coach signals a number on fingers), calls it out, then passes back. Wires the sole-stop to the scanning habit. At U10–U12 these two skills often exist independently; this drill forces them to work together.
▦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
- Player A passes to Player B.
- Player B sole-stops the ball.
- Player B looks up and calls out the number of fingers the coach is holding up.
- Player B passes back to A.
- Progression: coach's signal changes — hold up a colour bibs, or point left/right. Player B has to react before passing.
- Final progression: add a defender at 50% intensity. Sole-stop and scan must happen even under light pressure.
✓Equipment checklist
✦Coaching points
Praise when you see
- Light sole contact keeping the ball close
- Quick change of direction using the sole
Correct when you see
- Favouring the strong foot — insist on both
- Looking down constantly — encourage glances up
★Kit for this drill — top picks compared
| Pick | Product | Best for | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Top pick | Pop-Up Goals (pair) | Instant SSG setup. | Check price → |
| Value | Training Bibs (10-pack) | Split teams instantly. | Check price → |
| Upgrade | Marker Cones (50-pack) | Mark the pitch. | Check price → |
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?Frequently asked questions
What age group is Sole Stop and Scan suitable for?
This drill suits youth. Younger players build the basic feel unopposed; older players add pressure and pace.
How many players do I need for Sole Stop and Scan?
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 Sole Stop and Scan 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.