Goalkeeping Strategies
Protect your net
If you are a goalkeeper, your objective for each game is fairly straightforward- prevent the other team from scoring. However, the margin of error in the goal box is very low; there is no room for mistakes. A few inches here or half a step there can mean the difference in a goal or a save, which can then mean the difference in a win and a loss. The best way to prepare yourself to consistently and effectively protect your goal is to develop basic strategies for handling different types of shots and knowing when to clear, catch, or dive for the ball. Here are a few tips for handling the ball under a variety of circumstances-
Rolling Balls- The best way to handle a rolling ball is to go down on one knee, scoop it up with your hands, and cradle it to your chest. Keep your plant foot close to your knee so there is no way the ball can get past you, and lean forward to protect the ball as you bring it into your chest. If you are under pressure from the opposing team’s attackers, you may need to roll one way or another after securing the ball in order to be able to spring up and clear it from your zone.
High Balls- For balls that are shoulder level or higher or are rising upwards, place yourself directly in the path of the ball and then raise your hands upward until they are joined. Lock out your index fingers and thumbs and then touch your thumbs together, forming a W shape with your hands. This will allow for more solid shot blocking and make it more difficult for the ball to knock your hand aside.
Low Balls- Low, line-drive balls or falling shots are best handled by approaching them from underneath. Place yourself in the path of the ball, bend your knees, and allow the ball to hit you in the lower chest as you cradle it from below. If the shot is particularly hard it may bounce back off your chest, so be prepared to run it down and pounce on it.
Diving Stops- These dramatic save attempts usually occur during penalty kick situations and can be very difficult to master. After you have anticipated the shot and are prepared to dive in a particular direction, raise the knee of your leg which is further away from the ball and take off from your other foot with arms and fingers fully extended. If you are able to catch the ball, get your hands on top of it and use it as a landing cushion. If you can only get your fingertips on the ball, try to use the ball’s momentum to deflect it outwards and around the goalpost.