Crossroads

Objectives

To give team practice in crossing; timing of runs; realistic shooting and heading; goalkeepers - realistic cross ball situations.

Organization

• Distances/positions of the four starting stations can be varied according to age/ability of players but should be similar to above.
• Field players are divided equally between the four starting positions (not shown in illustration).
• Good quality passing, setting up play, diagonal pass and crossing are essential.
• Goalkeepers (2 or 3) can rotate in goal after each 3 or 4 crosses.
• Coach must ensure the practice area is clear before allowing the next attacking wave.
• A single defender can be added if the practice begins to work successfully.

Coaching Points

• Insist on high standards of passing/crossing from field players.
• Encourage goalkeeper to be acutely aware of starting position and adjustments as attack develops.
• Point out the necessity for good early decisions and if necessary, action.
• Ask the goalkeeper to establish the habit of communicating the decision loudly and early, even when not coming for the ball ("Away!").

ABILITIES DEVELOPED	KC's EMPHASIZED
Judgment of when/when not to come for cross; when/when not to catch or punch.	Alert and Alive, Open, Absorption, React, Recovery.

Additional Information

A high percentage of goals (70%+) are scored from attacks initiated from crosses and passes played in from the flank areas. While it was stated earlier that judgment of through balls is probably the most difficult situation a goalkeeper faces, the fact is a keeper will deal with many more cross ball situations than through ball situations. An ultimate judgment of keeper ability is usually made regarding their skill at dealing with crosses. Cross ball situations sort out the wheat from the chaff.

A full squad of players can be actively involved. Use a defender if practice is going well.

Therefore, no opportunity should be lost to gain practice in these types of situations. Also, any coach ignoring the importance of cross-ball practice and denying his or her team the opportunity of practicing in these circumstances is failing to coach the game of soccer.

The Crossroads practice is a challenging one, but very enjoyable. Players will be highly motivated in these situations.

Age Suitability

Age	Suitable	Comments
6-11	NO	Not yet ready for this practice.
12-15	YES	Very good practice, but have starting positions nearer to goal and not too wide.
16+	YES	First-class practice - a defender can be introduced after a while to help the keepers.