In this coaching course filmed exclusively for CV Academy, Northern Ireland head coach Ian Baraclough takes a group of players from Loughborough University through a series of practices designed to improve their attacking and defending at set-pieces.

The session begins with a long-range passing exercise in which pairs of players deliver balls over mannequins into a box representing target areas at attacking set-pieces. It then moves into a series of unopposed attacking-corner practices in which groups of five attack a series of both inswinging and outswinging deliveries; second and third-phase balls are added as progressions to give the attacking groups different challenges. Finally, Baraclough introduces the players to some of the possible defensive roles and responsibilities at set-pieces in an opposed situation.

It’s a really interesting session with a highly respected coach now operating at international level, and we hope you enjoy it! Please also click on the Resources tab to access the accompanying session plan in PDF form.