third-player Run Game
Off-Ball Movement
Legend
- player one
- wall player
- third runner
- defender
- goalkeeper
- ball movement
- straight P1 run
How it works
Execute third-player combinations where the off-ball runner attacks space created by a wall-pass sequence.
What you need
- cones
- soccer ball
- scrimmage vests
- goals
Your focus
third-player runs are the highest-value off-ball movement in team soccer , they create attacks that defenses cannot easily track. Training the recognition and timing of third-player opportunities develops the off-ball awareness that elite midfielders and forwards rely on.
Set up in a half-field. 3v2 attacks with a goalkeeper.
The combination must include a wall pass between players 1 and 2, then player 3 makes a run to receive from player 1.
Player 2 (the wall) must dummy the ball or make a decoy run after playing it.
The third-player must call 'third player!' as they start their run.
Award 2 points for goals from third-player runs, 1 for other goals.
10 attack sequences per group; rotate positions.
Goal
It's clicking when the third runner arrives into space the second the wall pass is played, the timing is what makes it dangerous, not just making the run.
Helpful cues
- third-player: your run starts when player 1 plays to player 2, not after
- Make your run into a different space than player 2 occupies
- The third-player call alerts your teammates to look for you
Adjust the challenge
Make it easier
Strip it back
Static run, player 3 just stands in the receiving position; no timing required.
UpLVL it
Add the next challenge
3v3, the third-player run must lose an active defender to receive.No account needed
Build a practice plan
Add drills, keep the plan in this browser, then share a link with your staff or parents.This library helps you find the right drill. Inside UpLVL the right drill finds the player.
This library helps you find the right drill. Inside UpLVL the right drill finds the player.After every practice, UpLVL automatically surfaces the drills each player needs to work on most. See it for yourself.