Corner routines

Setup

1. Four attackers (A1–A4) against four defenders (D1–D4) and a keeper in one half.
2. A1 takes the corner. D1 stands 5 m from the ball; D2–D4 mark.
3. A2 starts near the near post, A3 at the top of the area, A4 at the far post.

How it runs

1. A3 drops off towards the 10 m mark; A2 sets a still block in D3's path.
2. A1 plays it low and flat to A3, who shoots first time.
3. A4 attacks the far post for a deflection or rebound.
4. The coach counts the 4 seconds aloud. Not taken in time: the ball goes to the defenders.
5. Six corners from each side, then swap attackers and defenders.

Coaching points

• Ball in the corner arc, still, and played within 4 seconds.
• Taker: firm, on the ground, into the shooter's stride.
• Shooter: open the body early and strike first time, low.
• Blocker: feet set, arms in, and still before D3 arrives.
• One player stays back to stop the counter.

Common mistakes

• Slow set-up, so the count runs out.
• A bobbling pass that the shooter has to control.
• The blocker stepping into D3, which is a foul.
• Nobody following in to the far post.