Taking a pass close to the defensive line needs the receiver to step away from the contact, and quickly. If they have a supporting player behind them, they can also step and pass into the space they left behind. Use this exercise to develop the footwork, handling and support skills needed.
A feeder passes the ball to a receiver as they enter a box. The receiver should aim to enter with their hips facing up the pitch.
As soon as the receiver takes the pass, a pad holder comes forward.
The receiver needs to step inside or outside the pad holder.
Develop by adding a supporting player. The receiver now pops up to the support player if the pad holder moves with them, or go for the gap if not.
Keep swapping the sides that the ball comes in from.
Take away the cones, but still encourage square hips.
Also, start the receiver in different places, though always encourage a square position (that is facing up the pitch) when receiving the ball.
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