Third-Man Run

Objective

Combine short passes to release a third player in behind with a well-timed run.

Equipment

• Ball
• Cones

Instructions

1. 1

   Player A passes to Player B. As B receives, Player C starts a run in behind.

2. 2

   B lays off to A (or plays a one-two), then A plays the through ball into C's run.

3. 3

   C finishes on goal or controls and passes back to reset.

4. 4

   Rotate roles after every sequence.

Coaching Points

• ✓ Timing of C's run is critical — too early and they are offside, too late and the window closes.
• ✓ A must look up before the lay-off arrives to see C's run.
• ✓ The through ball must be weighted to run into, not to feet.

Variations

• → Add a passive defender on A to pressure the through ball.
• → Use in a 6-player setup with two teams alternating roles.