Set pieces are organized chances to score. This drill teaches two basic plays: the near-post corner and the direct free kick.
Equipment needed: One goal, 2-3 soccer balls, cones, 8 kids (6 attackers, 1 defender, 1 keeper).
Setup: Mark a corner flag area and a free-kick area 20 yards out.
How to run it:
- First part (10 minutes): Corner kick play. Kicker stands at corner. Four attackers in box. One defender. Kicker sends a ball to the near post. Attackers try to score. Do 5 reps.
- Second part (10 minutes): Free kick. Kicker stands 20 yards out. Five attackers in box. One defender. Kicker shoots or passes. Attackers finish. Do 5 reps.
What to look for: Communication and movement. On the corner, do attackers know where the ball is going? On the free kick, do they time their runs?
Variation: For younger kids (11), use just the corner (simpler). For older kids (12), add variations: near post, far post, short corner, different free-kick heights.