3-2-1 Combination Play
Three players work a set combination — layoff, through ball, finish — to develop quick combination passing.
Objective
Develop quick combination passing with a layoff and through ball, finishing with a shot on goal.
Watch It In Action
Visual Concept
Top-down diagram — Passing drill layout
Setup
Player A starts 25 yards from goal with the ball. Player B is 15 yards from goal as a target. Player C runs from wide.
How to Run It
Pass to target
Player A passes forward to Player B (the target man).
Layoff
Player B lays the ball back first-time to Player A who has continued their run.
Through ball
Player A plays a through ball into the channel for Player C who has made a run in behind.
Finish
Player C receives and shoots on goal. Rotate positions after each rep.
Coaching Cues
Player B: open your body for the layoff — don't receive square
Player A: time your run — arrive as the layoff comes back
Through ball weight is key — too hard and it runs away, too soft and the keeper gets it
Player C: make the run early but time it to stay onside
Variations
- Add a defender on Player B to make the layoff harder
- Player B turns and shoots instead of laying off
- Add a goalkeeper to make it competitive
Gear for This Drill
Everything you need to run 3-2-1 Combination Play — shop on Amazon with one click.
Set up in seconds. Perfect for small-sided games and shooting practice.
Standard for U9–U12. Great for skill development and drill work.
Classic tall cones for slalom drills, grids, and field marking.
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Browse all gearEquipment Needed
- Goal
- 4–6 balls
- 4 cones
Shop This Drill
Set up in seconds. Perfect for small-sided games and shooting practice.
View on AmazonStandard for U9–U12. Great for skill development and drill work.
View on AmazonClassic tall cones for slalom drills, grids, and field marking.
View on AmazonAs an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
Tags
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