Set pieces · 7v7 2-3-1

7v7 corners: a simple routine for small-sided football

7v7 corners are different. The box is smaller, there are fewer players, and many young players can't yet kick the ball to the far post. A good 7v7 routine keeps it simple: two players attack two spaces, one waits on the edge, one stays back, and there's always the short option.

Step 1 of 3

7v7 corner. Two runners, one on the edge, one back; the taker can go near post or short.

Drawn for 7v7 2-3-1. Pick your own format and shape and every step is redrawn for your players. Then present it or send it to your team.

Step by step

7v7 corner. Two runners, one on the edge, one back; the taker can go near post or short.
As the ball is struck, they attack two spaces: near post and the middle of the goal.
Near-post flick across goal, and the middle runner gets on the end of it.

When to use it

Every 7v7 corner. Give each player the same job every time so it becomes automatic.

Coaching points

Two in the box attack two spaces: the near post and the middle of the goal.
One on the edge of the box for clearances and second balls.
One stays back with their striker.
The taker aims for the near post, the easiest ball to deliver.
Use the short option when they leave one defender at the flag.

With younger players

Praise the run and the delivery, not just the goal. Corners are a great time to teach movement.

Who does what

Position	Their job
Taker	Near-post delivery or the short pass.
Near-post runner	Attacks the near post; flicks on or shoots.
Middle runner	Attacks the space in front of the keeper.
Edge player	Waits for the clearance.
Defender at the back	Stays with their striker.

When they change it

If they…	You…
Their keeper comes for everything	Deliver lower and harder to the near post.
They put everyone in the box	Play it short and cross from closer in.
They leave a striker up	Keep two back.

Common mistakes

Everyone crowding the six-yard box.
Nobody staying back.
Trying to reach the far post every time.

At 7v7, 9v9 and 11v11

7v7: The board: two runners, one on the edge, one back, the taker and a short option.
9v9: Three runners. See the attacking corners board.
11v11: Three runners, an edge player, a short option and three back. See the attacking corners board.