Counter-attack after a turnover

Setup

1. Three attackers (A1 to A3) and three defenders (D1 to D3) start in the left half; a goalkeeper in the right goal.
2. D3 starts on the ball, with D1 and D2 pushed up near halfway as if in possession.
3. Spare players wait at halfway to rotate in.

How it runs

1. D3 plays a pass towards D1; A1 cuts it out to trigger the counter.
2. A1 drives through the middle; A2 and A3 sprint wide on either side.
3. D1 and D2 recover; D3 chases from behind.
4. Attackers have 8 seconds from the turnover to shoot.
5. Rotate roles after every 3 counters.

Coaching points

• First thought after winning it: forward. Look up before the first touch.
• Ball carrier drives at the middle to pin the defenders, then releases.
• Wide runners sprint straight, then arrive at the posts; don't drift in early.
• Pass into space in front of the runner so they hit it in stride.
• Finish first time at the second post. Inside foot or toe-poke, on your feet.
• Count it out loud: shot inside 8 seconds.

Common mistakes

• Taking a touch backwards after the interception.
• Releasing too early, before a defender has committed.
• Runners arriving level with the ball carrier, so there's no angle.
• Slowing down to take an extra touch at the far post.