A server feeds the ball into an attacker who is pressed from behind. The attacker takes control under pressure and tries to beat the defender and finish on the main goal. If the defender wins it, they can counter and score in the small goals at the other end.
Young (U5 to U8)Mid (U9 to U13)Older (U14 to U18)Ball masteryDribbling & 1v1Passing & receivingPossessionAttacking playShooting & finishingDefendingFitness & movement
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In play
The setup
Step by step
1
The attacking player comes out to receive the ball off the server. (The server can be a coach.)
2
The defender comes out with the attacker, putting pressure from behind on the attacker whilst they receive the ball.
3
The server plays the ball into the attacker, they take control of the ball, under pressure from the defender.
4
If the defender does intercept and steal the possession of the ball, they can score in the small goals at the top of the pitch.
5
The attacker beats the defender, and gets a shot off and tries to finish.
Age group
Young (U5 to U8), Mid (U9 to U13), Older (U14 to U18)
Duration
15 mins (estimate - set to suit).
Players
8+ - a server (or coach) and a goalkeeper, with attackers and defenders coming through in pairs from two queues.
Area
About 25 x 30 yards, server end to the main goal (estimate - set to suit).
Equipment
A supply of balls for the server, two small goals (one either side of the server), a main goal, cones for the queues and the receiving area, and bibs to separate attackers from defenders.
FA Four Corners: what this develops
Technical / TacticalPsychologicalPhysicalSocial
Objective
Take control of the ball under pressure from behind, then make a quick decision: protect and pass into a small goal, or turn the defender and finish.
Set up
A server (or coach) stands at one end with a supply of balls and a small goal to each side of them. A main goal with a keeper sits at the opposite end. Attackers wait in one queue, defenders in another. An attacker checks out to receive from the server, and a defender comes with them, pressing from behind as the ball arrives.
Coaching points
Get side-on to the defender and keep your body between them and the ball.
Take your first touch away from the pressure, out of your feet rather than under them.
Use your arm to feel where the defender is and protect your space.
Read it early: no space to turn, protect and play into a small goal; a yard to work in, turn and finish.
Progressions
Start with the defender passive, then let them go fully live.
Limit the attacker to two touches, or make them call their option before the ball arrives.
Vary the server's delivery (to feet, to the side, driven) so the first touch has to adapt.
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