How to Play a Killer Soccer Pass

We are learning how to play a killer pass or through ball.

Equipment Needed: You will need 5 cones, a ball and a partner if you have one. 

Description: 

A through ball is used to play a pass behind defenders. The pass cuts them out of the game. A through ball is mainly used in the attacking third of the field. 

Exercise Player Can Do: 

Set up 4 cones in a line about 15 yards apart. A start cone, two middle cones next to each other that are your imaginary defender, then an end cone where your attacking partner stands. The fifth cone is placed up the field angled inside from your partner's cone about 10 yards. 

Now, imagine you are dribbling across the field and the defenders are moving across with you. If you pass a square ball to your teammate, have you done anything dangerous?

No! The defenders just shuffle across and the ball is still in front of them. 

This is where we want to play that killer pass behind the defense! So instead of passing square, pass behind the defenders and tell your teammate to run after it. Now the defenders are chasing and that is what we want! 

Do a set of 10 reps and then switch with your partner. If you don't have a partner, just imagine you do and get use to the idea of playing a through ball. 

Key Points:

1. Disguise your pass! If you turn your shoulders to play your through pass, everyone will see it's coming. Keep your shoulders facing your teammate when you play this pass to throw off the defenders. 

2. Lead your Pass! Play the ball so it's ahead of your teammate and putting them in on goal. Don't play it wide and out of their running path to goal. 

3. Communicate and tell your teammate to run.

4. Runner doesn't leave until the ball is passed. If the runner leaves to early, they could be offside. 

What Player Could Be Doing Wrong: 
If your teammate is not getting on to the end of your pass you are playing your pass to far or short. Timing is everything on a good through ball so make sure to weight your pass and not over hit it or under hit it. 

Bonus Tip:

Not every situation is a through ball situation. Sometimes it's best to play the ball sideways or square. But if you are confident, in the attacking third and the situation calls for a through ball then have the confidence to play that killer pass! 

This Video Covers:
How to Kick a Soccer Ball with Power - How to Kick a Soccer Ball with Accuracy - Soccer Passing Drills - Soccer Passing - Soccer Pass - Soccer Drills for Passing - Soccer Video Passing Drills - Passing Drills for Soccer - Passing Soccer Drills - Passing in Soccer - Kicking a Soccer Ball Technique