Attacking kick-in routines

Setup

1. Four attackers (A1–A4) against four defenders (D1–D4) and a keeper, in the attacking half.
2. The coach places the ball on the touchline about 8 m from the corner. A1 takes the kick-in.
3. D1 stands 5 m from the ball; the other defenders mark.

How it runs

1. Routine 1, the block: A2 checks short to pull D2 away, A3 sets a still block on D3, and A4 runs off it for a first-time shot.
2. Routine 2, the return: A1 plays short to A2 and steps on to the court for the return pass and a shot.
3. The A1 call (a number or a word) tells the team which routine is on.
4. The coach counts the 4 seconds aloud. Not taken in time: the kick-in goes to the defenders.
5. Six goes each, then swap attackers and defenders.

Coaching points

• The ball must be still and on the touchline when it's kicked.
• Get into position fast: the 4 seconds starts when A1 is ready to take it.
• Block: the blocker stands still, arms in; the runner brushes past their shoulder.
• Shoot first time, low, across the keeper.
• One player always stays back in case the routine breaks down.

Common mistakes

• Taking too long to set up and losing the ball on the count.
• The blocker moving into the defender, which gives away a foul.
• Everyone running into the box and nobody covering the counter.