I use Boro and semi on the crosses. They play them a lot in real life and I use it a lot in game, from both wings. Downing, ofc, is useful for doing it.
Tend to find that running and crossing, either early (L1) or in the 'zone', is more accurate than standing still and facing the direction of the cross. Perhaps because the strikers have already arrived and are being marked.
Timing the cross is important. In that it's better to start pressing SQUARE just before you reach the imaginary line running out to the side from his 12 yard box. This gives you enough time to build up the power meter to do a cross to near or far post and STILL be in a good position, not too deep, when you release it.
Early crosses are great as opponent's don't anticipate them as much and don't block as well. It helps if you can see your striker running in with his arm up calling for the ball. I find in that situation, as with corners, if you can get the ball to him he'll almost always get a header. Doesn't mean it'll go in but he will get to it before a defender.
When you do get to shoot, then tap the shoot button rather than holding it down or the ball will go over or to the side.
Other than that, I've been using finesses (R1) in conjunction with jockey (L2) a lot more recently for headers/crosses/corners. Seem to help a lot.
Don't know if using those buttons is the reason but my players have been doing more bicycle volleys lately too. Not overhead flip ones but the type where he jumps up with one leg and, whilst that's in the air, jumps and shoots with the other one. His body is still vertical so it's not a scissor kick. Haven't seen that anim at all much till recently.
Despite all this, success rate on crosses is probably only 20% to 30%. Depends a lot on how tall and muscular his defenders are too.... obviously.
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