The Perfect Timing For a Run into the Box

A tale as old as time: a winger is dribbling up the field, looking to cross it into the box. Their teammate gets the message and flies towards the goal.

But they get there too early and the cross drops in behind them.

How can you avoid this extremely common scenario? By entering the box at the perfect time. The fact is, obviously, perfect timing is easier said than done. This is why – when it comes to making runs into the box – being late is better than being early.

Why Players Run to the Box Too Early 

Learning that it’s better to be late running into the box rather than early is a hard lesson to learn. It’s not insinctual to take your time and be patient when you can so easily visualize your chance on goal.

But when you rush your run into the box, you pull the defender early and they have time to set up and you don’t give your winger a chance to play a good ball (which should come in around the penalty spot).

The Perfect Time: When the Ball Arrives 

Of course, the perfect timing for a run into the box is to arrive when the ball gets there. And the only way to know when the ball will get there is to not only watch your winger closely, but also have practiced with them a ton and know what to expect.

So, rather than just running full-speed into the box, approach the box at a slower, steady pace, while simultaneously keeping an eye on the winger. You’re not in the box just yet.

Another key step is trusting your winger. They’ll know where to put the ball. You don’t need to be in the box to give them a target.

Based on their positioning and the timing of their pass, you’ll be able to anticipate where the ball is about to end up.

Time Your Run with the Winger’s Pass

In the end, it’s very hard to time the run perfectly. If you want to play it safe, make a bellying run out towards the far post and cut back in to the penalty spot. That gives a little extra time before the defense will get set and if you’re a little late, being far post gives you an extra few moments to win the ball.

Executing a perfectly-timed run into the box is infinitely easier when you’ve seen it in action. The same goes with any other essential decision you make in a game.

That’s why we created BGTV, a massive library of clips from pro matches organized by position with analysis from professional players. These clips feature high-level players making smart decisions - like running into the box right as the ball gets there - with breakdowns explaining exactly how the player knew what to do in this situation.

The more high-level footage you watch, the easier it is to implement the same techniques in your next match.

Okay, ready to check out BGTV? Use code FREEMONTH1 to get the first month free.