Daisy cutters

Having to receive a low pass at knee level or below (a “daisy cutter” pass) happens no matter how much your team practises. Help your players prepare to cope with this type of pass so they never drop the ball or knock on and keep the attack moving. This is achieved by turning a poor pass into a good pass in one smooth movement.

Warm up time: 7-10
Session time: 10-15
Development time: 10-15
Game time: 10-15
Warm down time: 7-10

What to think about

Knowing that the ball will be delivered low obviously helps the receiver prepare physically and mentally. It takes away the unknown element from the session. Ensure that you develop the session by mixing up the type of passes the receiver has to deal with, as this will be far more realistic to the game. Watch to see if, in dealing with the low pass, your players’ running and balance is affected. If so, spend time with individuals and work on their footwork when bending over to collect the ball.

set-up

1. Always keep your hands up as a target, even though you know the ball will be passed low to you.
2. As the ball is passed, try to keep your movement smooth while reaching down and catching the ball.
3. Take the catch and pass in one movement.

What you get your players to do

Split into groups of three with two players feeding and one catching and passing. Stand both players feeding the ball on either side of the box. Start the third player at one end running through the middle of the box. As he gets close to the centre, have the first feeder pass the ball low to the catcher’s knee. He should catch and pass immediately to the second feeder, ensuring he turns the low pass into a good pass. Have the passer run to the end of the box, turn and repeat the exercise six times.