Back-to-Goal Layoff

Objective

Receive with back to goal, hold up play, and lay the ball off to a supporting player.

Equipment

• Ball
• Cones

Instructions

1. 1

   Player A stands with back to goal. Player B is 8 yards behind A with the ball.

2. 2

   B plays into A's feet. A cushions the ball, shields from a light defender, and lays it back to B.

3. 3

   B takes a touch and plays the next action (shot, pass, or dribble).

4. 4

   Rotate roles every 8 reps.

Coaching Points

• ✓ A should check their shoulder before receiving to know where the defender is.
• ✓ Use the body to shield — arm out for balance, not to push.
• ✓ Lay the ball firmly into B's path, not straight back through your own feet.

Variations

• → Add a live defender on A who tries to nick the ball during the hold-up.
• → Add a second support player so A must choose who to lay off to.