Session 6: Shooting on the Turn

Finishing Youth Development Phase, Senior Phase 5–10 Players 30x25

Added January 2026

Set up a full-size goal with a goalkeeper at one end of the 30x25 yard area. Position two servers (or gates/cones) at angles outside the penalty area or wider, facing the goal, to serve balls into the shooters. Players line up in front of the goal as shooters, ready to receive. A server plays a pass into the shooter, who receives with their back to goal or at an angle, turns quickly, and shoots. After serving, the server follows their pass and rotates into the shooting line to keep the drill flowing continuously at high tempo. Rotate servers and shooters to maintain energy and repetition.
Encourage a positive first touch that sets the ball up perfectly for a quick shot – avoid heavy touches that kill momentum. Reinforce explosive, sharp turns away from any imagined or added pressure to create space. Focus on shooting accuracy over power initially – aim for corners and low driven shots to beat the keeper. Promote composure and calmness in the final action – players should scan the goal and goalkeeper before turning. Praise sharp reactions to the pass arrival and an immediate attacking mindset – no hesitation. Emphasize using both feet for finishing to develop versatility. Maintain high tempo throughout – quick rotations and constant movement to simulate game intensity. Remind players to follow through towards the target and keep body balanced after the shot.
Limit the shooter to two touches maximum (one to turn/control, one to finish) for added realism and urgency. Introduce a passive defender shadowing the shooter to apply light pressure on the turn. Progress to an active defender who starts behind or beside the shooter after the first touch, forcing faster decisions and finishing under pressure. Vary service type – bounced balls, driven passes, or aerial balls to challenge different receiving skills. Add a second shooter for rebound/follow-up shots on deflections or saves. Switch angles or distances to work different shooting positions (e.g., narrower or wider entries). For easier version, allow three touches or remove any defender initially.
Technical / Tactical
Shooting technique, First touch to set up the shot, Composure in front of goal, Finishing with both feet, Quick turning under pressure, Awareness of goal and goalkeeper position
Psychological
Composure, Confidence, Quick decision-making, Resilience after missed chances, Attacking mindset
Physical
Power, Balance, Coordination, Quick reactions, Agility in turning
Social
Communication with teammates, Celebrating success, Encouraging others
Principles of Play
In Possession
Penetration Movement Creativity