Attacking Soccer

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.

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.