Gafferbook
Goalkeeping ยท U9 to adult

Keeper reaction saves

The keeper's view is blocked until late by a cone line or mannequin, so they have to react to the ball. Sharpens reflexes and quick feet.

U9 to adultAges
1 to 2 keepers plus a serverPlayers
Goal areaArea
8 to 10 minsTime

Your assistant coach: turn this drill into a full session, plan the weeks around it and tell me how it went.

โž• Put it in tonight's session๐Ÿ—“ Build my season around itโœ๏ธ Make my own version

Set-up

  • Server 8 to 10 metres out; a screen (a teammate or cones on a stand) halfway.
  • Keeper set in the middle of the goal.

Equipment: Goal, balls, cones or mannequin

How it works

  1. Server strikes past either side of the screen.
  2. Keeper reacts and saves.
  3. Sets of 6, then rest.

Coaching points

  • Stay set and patient: don't guess.
  • Quick hands first, feet to follow.
  • Recover to your feet quickly.

Add this drill to a session plan โ†’

Make it easier

  • No screen, softer shots

Make it harder

  • Screen player can deflect the shot
  • Two quick shots in a row

AttackersDefendersKeeper / neutral- - โ†’ Passโ†’ Runใ€ฐโ†’ Dribble

Questions about this drill?

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