Gafferbook
Set pieces · 11v11 4-3-3

Long throws: attacking the box from a throw-in

A long throw into the box is like a corner without the curl: it arrives flatter and quicker, and there's no offside from a throw-in. The usual pattern is a target at the near post to flick it on, runners attacking the far side, and players on the edge for the clearance. You need a thrower who can reach the near post, so it's an option for older players.

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Step 1 of 3

Long throw from the right. Target in front of the near post, runners deep, two on the edge.

Drawn for 11v11 4-3-3. 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

  1. Long throw from the right. Target in front of the near post, runners deep, two on the edge.
  2. Flat, quick throw to the target, who gets across the marker and flicks it on.
  3. Runners attack the far side for the flick-on.

When to use it

Throw-ins in the attacking third, when you have a long thrower. Use it as a variation rather than every time.

Coaching points

  • A target attacks the near post to flick it on.
  • Runners start deep and attack the far side of the six-yard box.
  • Two on the edge for the second ball.
  • Keep players back as at a corner.
  • Throw flat and quick, aimed at the target's head.

With younger players

For young players focus on legal, accurate short throws. Long throws come with strength later.

Who does what

PositionTheir job
ThrowerFlat, quick throw to the near post.
TargetGets across their marker and flicks on.
RunnersAttack the far post and the middle.
Edge playersWin the second ball.
Rest defenceTwo or three back.

When they change it

If they…You…
They put a player in front of the targetThrow beyond to the penalty spot.
They drop deep to defend itTake a quick short throw instead.
Their keeper comes for itTarget blocks the keeper's path legally by attacking the ball first.

Common mistakes

  • Throwing it every time so they're ready for it.
  • Nobody on the edge.
  • Runners standing still in the six-yard box.

At 7v7, 9v9 and 11v11

7v7
Rarely useful: young players can't throw far, and some leagues use kick-ins. Use short throws.
9v9
Possible with a strong thrower, but short throws are usually better.
11v11
The board: target at the near post, runners at the far post, two on the edge.

Drills to practise it

Flick-on header to a runner

U14 to adult · Groups of 3

Open the drill →

Attacking header from a served cross

U14 to adult · 4 to 10 plus a keeper

Open the drill →

Timing your header: attack the ball

U14 to adult · Groups of 3

Open the drill →

Jumping header technique

U14 to adult · Groups of 3

Open the drill →

Long ball and the second ball

U12 to adult · 8 to 14 plus a keeper

Open the drill →

Questions coaches ask

Is there offside from a long throw?

No. A player can't be offside when receiving directly from a throw-in.

How do you defend a long throw?

Put your best header in front of their target, keep the keeper's space clear, and mark the runners.

Should young players practise long throws?

Focus on a legal throw and accuracy first. Distance comes with age and strength.

More tactics boards

Set piece

Throw-in routine

Simple throw-in routines that keep possession: one checks short, one spins in behind, and the thrower steps back on to receive. No offside from a throw-in.

Watch it →Set piece

Attacking corner

A simple attacking corner routine: start deep, attack three spaces, flick on at the near post, keep players back. Roles, variations and drills.

Watch it →With the ball

Route one

Direct play on an animated board: the long ball to a target, the flick-on or knock-down, and the runners who win the second ball. When it works.

Watch it →

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