ABOUT THIS ALBUM

This album provides a number of free kick (16) and corner plays (5), from the most basic and easily effective to more complex, for any team U10 to U18. Players learn when and where to perform the right free kicks, using signals such as the defense’s organization or the ball’s distance from goal. Players learn how to use defensive walls to their advantage through dummy runs and quick passes. Plays outline effective deception tactics to catch defenses off-guard and to exploit small gaps in the defense. Additionally, players learn to execute effective throw-ins, kick offs, and goal kicks. These plays emphasize the importance of timing and quick touches to make players comfortable with the high-pressure situations that set plays create.

SOCCER CONTEXT

Set plays, also called “restarts,” frequently produce goals. Studies of professional games show that over 60% of goals originate from set plays, including free kicks and corner kicks. Be sure your team maximizes these scoring opportunities. Practice at least one set play each week. Find a specialist on your team who can shoot or “serve” accurate kicks from a dead ball. Have several players be in charge of determining which play to run and when. This task is great for a center midfielder or team captain who can read the game well.