Goalkeeper 1v1 and reaction saves

Setup

1. Goalkeeper (GK) in goal. Attacker A1 at halfway with a ball; A2 waits to go next.
2. Coach (CO) with a supply of balls on the edge of the area, off to one side.

How it runs

1. A1 dribbles in at pace and tries to score 1v1.
2. As soon as the 1v1 ends, CO strikes a second ball from about 6 m for a reaction save.
3. Sets of 6 reps (12 saves), then 90 seconds' rest. Three sets.
4. A1 and A2 alternate; the goalkeeper counts saves.

Coaching points

• Step off the line as the attacker comes in to cut the angle, then set before the shot.
• Set: feet shoulder-width, weight forward, hands low and out to the side.
• Stay tall until the attacker commits. Going down early gives them the chip or the dummy.
• Close range, block: drop to one knee with the other leg spread to the post side, hands filling the gaps.
• After any save, get up and reset fast. The second ball is coming.
• Reaction save: stay low and compact, let the ball come to you, use any part of the body.
• Push saves wide, never back into the middle.

Common mistakes

• Rushing out and being rounded.
• Diving early and the attacker walks it round.
• Standing upright on close shots so the ball goes under.
• Staying on the floor after the first save.