Perfect miss passes

WHY USE IT

Focuses on when to use the miss pass, as much as how to execute it.

SET UP

A 10m square.

HOW TO PLAY

Technique: Start with three attackers running through a 10m square, practising miss passes using spin.

Activity: Add two defenders (D1, D2), starting on the opposite side. D1 runs at the ball carrier (A1). A1 has to fix D1 before passing. D2 runs at A2 (the middle player), leaving A3 free to receive the miss pass. Gradually build up the speed of the defenders to increase the pressure on the passer. Insist on accurate passes in front of the receiver.

Development: Allow D2 to decide which attacker to target. A2 must now make the decision as to where the ball goes, and communicate it to the ball carrier. Allow D1 to drift across if the pass is given too early. This checks the timing of the pass is accurate.

COACHING POINTS

• Ball carrier: Follow through to the target; Scan the defence before passing; Pass as close to the defender as you dare.
• Middle attacker: Shout for the ball to fix the defender.

TECHNIQUE

• As the ball is released, the hand spinning the ball is pulled up and across it. In this example, it is the right hand spinning the ball

ACTIVITY

1. The aim of this exercise is to develop spatial awareness of when to pass
2. Play 3v2
3. Initially, the two defenders pressurise the first two attackers
4. Increase the speed of movement as the players become more confident

DEVELOPMENT

1. Now D2 can decide which attacker to target

2. Allow D1 to drift across if A1 passes too early