How to Set Plays for Throw Ins in Soccer

Soccer throw-ins give the throwing team the advantage of being able to place the ball in a desired location on the field. However, the opposing team will usually guard all open players as heavily as possible. The opponents will try to move in front of your teammates, in an attempt to win the ball from the throw-in. Therefore, having a variety of throw-in plays is essential to winning the ball on the throw-in and using the advantage to control the momentum of the game. Here's how to set plays for throw ins in soccer when your team is throwing the ball.

Things You'll Need

• Soccer ball
• Practice
• Soccer match

Instructions

1. Move around, keeping the defender behind you, as your throwing team mate gets ready for the throw-in. Catch her eye and make sure she knows you're preparing to be open. Stand back a few yards from the the place where you'll be running down line.

2. Move to the open space quickly as your teammate throws the ball.

3. 

   Receive and deliver the ball in a one-touch move. Use your head or chest to keep the ball from getting near your opponents' feet.

4. Flick the ball down line to your waiting teammate, who most likely is not covered by a defender since most opposing players were guarding close to the throw-in.

5. Move to a parallel open space to give your teammate a passing option. Giving him this opening is essential if he is quickly challenged by the other team.

Tips & Warnings

• Set up a throw in drill in practice to work on this play as a team.

• Keep your hands down while receiving the ball to avoid touching it with your hands.

Resources