Soccer Attacking

Long Ball & Target Play

Practise the direct play — hitting a target striker, holding the ball, and linking play.

20 minDuration
10 playersGroup size
IntermediateDifficulty
Full pitchSpace needed
Bibs, ballsEquipment

Setup

GK distributes to midfielder. Midfielder plays long to target striker. Support joins.

Instructions

  1. GK rolls to CM who runs forward.
  2. CM plays a lofted pass to target ST.
  3. ST holds the ball and lays off to oncoming CM2 or wide player.
  4. Sequence ends with a shot. Rotate positions every 5 minutes.

Coaching Points

✓ Target ST must show strong, protected body.
✓ Lay-off must be crisp — don't dwell.
✓ Support runners arrive early and at pace.

Progressions

→ Add a CB who wins the header before target play.
→ Target must beat a CB in a 1v1 after hold-up.
→ Full 7v7 with the long-ball system.

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