Scanning: why players should check their shoulder.

Ever noticed how the best players always seem to have more time on the ball? Often, the reason is scanning. Before the ball arrives, they have already looked around, seen where the space and pressure are, and decided what to do next.

What is scanning?

Scanning means quickly looking around, often over the shoulder, to see where teammates, opponents and space are before receiving the ball. It is a quick glance, not a long look, and good players do it many times before the ball reaches them.

Why scanning matters

A player who scans knows what they will do before the ball arrives. That means a better first touch into space, a quicker pass and fewer turnovers. Players who do not scan often receive the ball and then look up, by which time a defender has closed them down.

When to scan

• While the ball is travelling between teammates.
• Just before the ball is passed to you.
• After you pass, so you know where to move next.

Drills to build the habit

Wall pass and call

Pass against a wall. As the ball comes back, a parent or friend holds up a number of fingers or calls a direction behind you. Look over your shoulder, say the number or direction, then receive the ball. This builds the habit of looking before receiving.

Colour cones

Place two different coloured markers behind you. As the ball comes back from the wall, someone calls a colour, and you take your first touch towards that cone.

In games

Challenge yourself to check your shoulder every time before receiving the ball in training games. It will feel unnatural at first, then it becomes a habit.

Start young

Scanning is a habit, and habits are easiest to build early. Young players who learn to scan develop better awareness and decision making as they grow.

Train smarter with Dynamic Football

We coach awareness and decision making alongside technique in our football training in Melbourne. Book a session to get started.