Snap or Centring Kick

Focus

Skills under pressure, Decision Making, Forward line delivery.

Skills

GoalKicking, Kicking, Tackle.

Purpose

When a crumb is gathered deep in the forward pocket, players have the choice of taking a snap at goal, or a centring kick to a teammate who can take a set shot. The latter is preferable but not always an option - this drill works through that decision making process.

Players

7⁺

Ages

13⁺

Balls

2⁺

Cones

Distance (max)

20m

Opp. tops

Visible opposition strip: 2

Setup
2 defenders and 2 attackers are involved each turn. Start another attacker in the goals at (C) to retrieve/return shots on goal. Remainder line-up at (A)
Step 1
Coach rolls the ball near the boundary. (A) runs out and crumbs, while a defender runs out to pressure them from near the goalsquare.

(A) should be able to crumb without pressure from (B), so make sure you roll so (A) has the advantage
Step 2
After picking up, (A) sees the approaching defender, so stops and wheels back inside.
Step 3
The second attacker (B) is roaming around providing a short option, however will have a defender on their hammer.
Step 4
(A) must choose between the centring pass if (B) has managed to gain a few metres on their opponent, or taking a shot if (B) is covered.

As mentioned, a pass is preferable - but only if it's on.

(B) can only receive a kick, not a handball, so mustn't get too close to (A).
Step 5
After the kick, first defender returns to their cone near the goals. (A) becomes the leading forward (B); (C) returns the football to the coach and joins (A); (B) becomes (C).

Rotate the defenders after 5 turns.
Step 6
Progression 1: Move the cones to the other side of the ground. This is a much trickier proposition and most players are right-footed and will find the shot difficult.
Step 7
Progression 2: Add a second roaming forward and defender to cover them.

Roaming forwards have 2 turns at (B) before moving to (C).