THROUGH PASSS.
A through pass in football is a strategic passing technique used to send the ball into space ahead of a teammate, allowing them to run onto it while evading defenders. This type of pass is crucial for breaking defensive lines and creating goal-scoring opportunities. Here’s a detailed explanation of the through pass, including its delivery, types, and applications.
Purpose of a Through Pass:
- ▫ CREATING SPACE: The primary goal of a through pass is to exploit gaps in the defense by playing the ball into open space.
- ▫ SETTING UP ATTACKS: It is often used to initiate fast breaks or counterattacks, allowing attackers to advance toward the goal.
- ▫ BYPASSING DEFENDERS: A well-timed through pass can slip past defenders, giving the receiving player a clear path to the ball.
Types of Through Passes:
- ▫ STRAIGHT THROUGH PASS: A direct pass played forward into space for a teammate to run onto, usually aimed at a striker or winger.
- ▫ DIAGONAL THROUGH PASS: A pass played at an angle, often used to exploit defensive weaknesses and find players in space.
- ▫ CHIP THROUGH PASS: A lofted through ball that gently clears defenders while landing in front of the intended teammate, allowing for easier control.
Delivery of a Through Pass:
- FOOT PLACEMENT:
▫ INSIDE OF THE FOOT: For accuracy, the inside of the foot is commonly used to make a controlled pass, especially for shorter distances.
▫ LACES: For longer distances, striking with the laces generates power, making it crucial to ensure the ball remains on the ground. - BODY POSITION:
▫ APPROACH: Approach the ball at a slight angle to give a clearer line of sight to the intended target.
▫ NON-KICKING FOOT: Position your non-kicking foot beside the ball to provide stability and guide your kick. - STRIKING THE BALL:
▫ CONTACT POINT: Aim to strike the ball with the correct part of your foot to achieve the desired height and distance.
▫ FOLLOW-THROUGH: Follow through in the direction of the intended target to maintain accuracy and control.
Reading the Game:
- ▫ ANTICIPATION: Anticipate the movement of teammates and defenders to decide when to deliver the through pass.
- ▫ TIMING: Deliver the pass at the right moment, ensuring your teammate is making the run into the open space.
Benefits of a Through Pass:
- ▫ BREAKING DEFENSIVE LINES: Through passes can effectively break through defensive setups, creating clear scoring opportunities.
- ▫ ENHANCING TEAM PLAY: They promote quick, attacking football and help maintain the tempo of the game.
- ▫ ENCOURAGING MOVEMENT: Encourages teammates to make forward runs, increasing offensive dynamism.
Practice Drills:
- ▫ PARTNER DRILLS: Work with a partner to practice making through passes, focusing on timing and accuracy.
- ▫ CONE DRILLS: Set up cones to represent defenders and practice threading passes through the gaps.
- ▫ SMALL-SIDED GAMES: Engage in small-sided matches where players are encouraged to utilize through passes to enhance real-game effectiveness.