Wide Combination, Cross and Finish

Coaching objective

Players create space wide, deliver an accurate cross, and attack different scoring zones with timed runs.

Setup

• Place a wide server or winger near the touchline and two attackers centrally.
• Start the ball with a midfielder 25–35 yards from goal.
• The midfielder combines with the winger, who crosses for near- and far-post runners.

Rules and scoring

• The winger must look up before crossing.
• The two finishers attack different zones and may not run side by side.
• Add a trailing player at the edge of the penalty area once the basic timing is established.

Coaching cues

• Wide player: first touch forward and head up early.
• Near-post runner: arrive fast across the first defender.
• Far-post runner: delay, stay out of sight, then attack the back space.
• Do not enter the finishing zone before the winger can deliver.
• Cross into space ahead of the runners, not directly at them.

Detailed coaching points

• The timing of the runs matters more than sprinting into the box early.
• Demand different deliveries: low cutback, driven cross, and lofted far-post ball.
• The third attacker should protect the edge of the box and react to clearances.
• Rotate all players through wide and central roles.

Common errors and corrections

• Both attackers making the same run.
• Winger crossing without looking at the finishing picture.
• Runners arriving before the ball is ready to be delivered.
• Crosses played behind the attackers.

Progress the drill

• Add one or two live defenders.
• Allow the winger to cut inside and shoot when the defender blocks the cross.
• Play from both sides in alternating repetitions.
• Award extra points for a finish from a cutback or a first-time strike.

Simplify the drill

• Use passive defenders or mannequins.
• Begin the winger closer to the crossing area.
• Use only one finishing runner initially.
• Allow the crosser to stop the ball before delivering.

What to measure

• Crosses reaching a designated scoring zone.
• Near- and far-post runs arriving at different times.
• First-time shots on target.
• Goals created from cutbacks, driven crosses, and far-post deliveries.