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Attacking requires better ball control than defending, because it is difficult to keep possession long enough to get within scoring range by just whacking at the ball. As a result, the coach must spend a lot of time in developing the ball control skills of his players, and in training them in the various elements of individual attacking.

Individual attacking has 3 basic phases. The first phase is ...

What needs to be done to keep possession of the ball - but only until he gets into scoring distance of the opposing goal. Once in a good shooting position, there is little risk in taking a shot - and a lot of potential benefit to be gained.

While this is obvious to adults, it is not always obvious to children. Many children are very literal-minded. If the coach tells them to ...
The Finishing Phase
Understanding Finishing Angles
Central Finishing
Angle Finishing to Near/Far Posts

The importance of learning the basic principles of small group attacking cannot be over-emphasized. The basic patterns which are involved in 1 v 1, 2 v 1 and 3 v 1 (or 3 v 2) attacking are the cornerstone of all other attacking patterns. As a result, unless the player has developed an understanding of basic small group attacking patterns, he will be ill-prepared to work within a larger group setting…

When Are Players Ready for this Work?
Learning the Importance of Support

Understanding Small Group Attacking Principles:  2:  Finishing 2v1, 3v1 - Larger Groups

Because the alleys down the sides of the field are the least crowded, supporting player most usually will be running along the touchline (or fairly close to it) in order to provide a safety outlet for the ball. The inside player, on the other hand, will constantly be on the alert for openings to make a run towards goal, and will want to probe and push at the defense so that he can take advantage of any ...
Moving to 2 v 1 Finishing Work
Moving to 3 v 1 Finishing Work
How These Principles Relate to Larger Group Attacks