The key to success in soccer is solid, well-rounded attacking skills. And in today's game all 11 players on the field, not just the strikers, need to be proficient in attacking play. Strikers must master the technical and tactical skills, finding new ways to put the ball between the goalposts. Defenders must be willing and able to move forward and join in attacks. Even goalkeepers must know how to launch and coordinate a counterattack. In Attacking Soccer, editor Jay Miller has assembled a panel of experts to discuss these topics and more:
• Attacking from the flanks
• Crossing and attack heading
• Direct and indirect free kicks
• Capitalizing on corner kicks and throw-ins
• Maintaining team possession
• Attacking from the defensive third
The coaches who have written these chapters are a who's who of elite soccer, including Anson Dorrance, Ken Lolla, Bobby Clark, Tony DiCicco, and Mike Noonan. Each has included favorite drills so that you can practice the same attacking skills used with elite players. Attacking Soccer is the definitive guide for breaking down defenses and consistent offensive performance.
Chapter 6 Creating Opportunities in the Attacking Third
Chapter 7 Attacking From the Flanks
Chapter 8 Specialty Skills: Crossing and Attack Heading
Chapter 9 Shooting and Finishing
Chapter 10 Corner Kicks and Throw-Ins
Chapter 11 Direct and Indirect Free Kicks
Jay Miller's 40-year coaching career is the culmination of a life of competition and mentoring at every level of soccer. With a BS and MED in health and physical education from East Stroudsburg University, Jay began his career at Lebanon County High School, where he won the state championship, a first for the school. Later, coaching at the collegiate level, Jay led the University of Tampa to their first national title. As head coach for the University of South Florida, Jay won three conference titles.
Jay has served as a national teams coach and coaching instructor for the United States Soccer Federation since 1978. He has contributed to several technical reports for competitions, including the 1994 World Cup, 1996 Olympic Games, and the 1999 Women's World Cup. His international coaching includes qualifying the U-17 national team for the 1997 World Championships and serving as a national coach for the U-18, U-20, U-23, and full national teams. Coach Miller represented the U.S. State Department's Sports Envoy Program as an instructor and coach on tours to Morocco, Bolivia, and Thailand.
In 2012 Jay joined New England Revolution Professional Soccer Club as the first assistant. The following year the Revs returned to the MLS Playoffs after a four-year absence.
"Attacking Soccer makes the subtle complexities of a tactical sport clean and enlightening. It is a must-read for all aspiring coaches and players."
Mick Elliott-- Award-Winning Sports Writer and Olympic Journalist
"Jay Miller is one of the few professionals who can train coaches and teams and excel at both. His insightful book is a first-class manual on how to attack."
Ray Reid-- Head Soccer Coach University of Connecticut
"The most successful coaches 'see' the game and make adjustments when necessary. They also connect with and develop their players. Jay excels at both, and with Attacking Soccer you can too."
Taylor Twellman-- Former U.S. Men's National Team Player and MLS MVP With the New England Revolution, ESPN Analyst for MLS and U.S. Men's National Team Matches
"Jay Miller possesses a vast wealth of knowledge culled from his coaching experiences across every level of American soccer over the past 35 years. He shares what he has devised and learned in Attacking Soccer, an informative guide to breaking down the opposition composed with the help of established and successful coaches from across the country. The lessons included in this book provide vital knowledge for coaches at any level looking to improve how their team moves from back to front and produces chances in the final third."
Kyle McCarthy-- FOX Soccer
"Jay Miller is an excellent choice as a contributing editor because of his experience at every level of soccer from youth to professional. He has a vast knowledge of this wonderful game, and his insight will resonate with all coaches. Great coaches are always actively searching for new or different ways to learn about their game. This book offers an excellent platform into the perspective of 11 of our country's most knowledgeable and successful soccer coaches."
