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Posted on November 22, 2008 by Pearle Tsuji | Posted under Soccer
Soccer Goalie: What It Takes
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Be sure to know the soccer rules as most of goalkeepers start in midfield or as defenders and they need to know the rules just like anyone else in the field. Some goalkeepers end up to be managers or coaches and those rules are sure to be welcomed in the long term. Look at your height and measure yourself. Even if you are not tall you can still be a great goalkeeper if you have a lot of agility and speed. One trick is to intimidate your opponents right before they shot. You are a good goalkeeper if you keep your gate free from goals, and that sometimes implies not only to be able to catch the ball, but to organize the defense or even scare the attackers and make them miss the shot. You can catch the ball or you can box it out. Most of the times, for slower balls, use your hand to form a pocket and catch it on your chest with your arms around it. Sometimes when the ball comes too fast or on the wrong angle you can use your fist or palm to knock it out. Take care not to use your thumbs as they could get hurt from fast power ball shots. For high balls, jump on one leg, using the other for support and use your hands to catch the ball. For lower balls you can dive in with your hands in front, sliding your body and aiming at the ball. Don't forget to bring the ball to a stand on the ground before engaging in any other movement. A perfect catch is done not only by using your hands but your body as well. Position your body behind the hands to parry it in case the ball slips from your catch. When the ball is low and hits the ground, try to cover it with your whole body not just with the arms so that the bouncing will be stopped and you can secure the jumping ball. Always remember to close the angle of the attacker by placing yourself near and cover most of the gate area in front of him. Do not stay on the gate line when defending, run in front of the attacker and block him with your hands and body. Using your legs, sometimes, is the last resort and you must not hesitate to do so in order to save a goal. When your body is facing the wrong direction and the ball is missing you just try to use one of your legs to hit it. Sometimes it may work and save a goal. On free kicks and penalty kicks keep an eye on the kicker. Watch his eyes, body movement, hips, shoulders as they can reveal the actual direction of the kick and you can have an actual chance to defend the gate. About The Author: Visit www.articleclick.com for additional article contributions by Pearle Tsuji. |
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