Step by step
- A (centre-back) plays into B (striker), who comes short. As the ball goes, C (midfielder) starts running.
- B sets it first time into C's path. The defender who followed B is now behind the play.
- C arrives facing goal with time to shoot or pass. That's the third-man run.
When to use it
Use it to get through a tight midfield or past a defender marking your striker closely. It's the pattern behind a lot of goals that look like one smooth move.
Coaching points
- C starts the run when A passes, not when B receives. Too late and the chance has gone.
- B comes short to receive and sets it with one touch. Taking a touch gives the defence time to recover.
- A and B need a clear picture: B shows for the ball, which is the signal for C to go.
- The run goes into space the defender can't see, often behind the player marking B.
With younger players
Teach it as a passing pattern first (up, back, through), then add one defender. In 5v5 the third player is often the one who made the first pass running on.