Volleys and half-volleys

Setup

1. A goalkeeper in goal. A server with the balls stands wide of the box, level with the penalty spot.
2. Shooters queue 16 m out, in line with the far post.
3. Mark a cone at the penalty spot as the striking area.

How it runs

1. The server tosses the ball underarm toward the penalty spot; the shooter moves in to meet it.
2. First round, strike it on the volley. Second round, let it bounce once and hit the half-volley.
3. The shooter becomes the server; the server joins the line. 6 strikes each per round.

Coaching points

• Get side-on early and watch the ball onto your foot.
• Knee over the ball and toe pointed down to keep it low.
• Short, firm leg swing; accuracy over power.
• Half-volley, strike just as the ball comes up off the ground.

Common mistakes

• Leaning back, so the ball balloons over the bar.
• Swinging too hard and slicing it wide.
• Arriving late and striking the ball too low, near the ground.