Goalkeeping is an important skill in soccer and it’s the last line of defense that we need to consider. Goalkeepers will need to prevent the ball from smashing into the net, which gives the opposing team another point. Goalkeepers are allowed to stop or deflect the ball with any part of their body. It is necessary for goalkeepers to improve their catching and handling skill. It is also important for them to properly handle their positioning skill. When facing a fast-moving striker, the goalie will need to know how to cut down the angles. Positioning is an essential skill and it should be included in goalkeeping drill. It means that goalkeepers should know whether they should be at all times. They need to maximize their advantage in the 18-yard box, that allows them to hold the ball with their hand. Any violation performed by the goalkeeper may cause him to get free kick, yellow card or red card. Goalkeepers must be responsive and be ready to accept shots from any area. They shouldn’t also be fooled by unexpected tricks, such as ball redirection or back pass. Goalkeepers should know how to maintain a perfect position to stop the incoming ball, even with only a fingertip.
Goalkeepers should be brave enough to deal with any incoming opponent to catch or deflect the ball. During training sessions, goalkeepers should concentrate their efforts and know how to return the ball to their teammates. Whatever goalkeepers do, they should do everything quickly, because it takes seconds before that ball hits the net. It is the reason why goalkeepers should be well prepared to do everything quickly. Any pass that the goalkeeper makes should be accurate and quick, but it should be controlled enough to allow team mates receive it properly. In fact, inaccurate outlet pass from the goalie can be acquired by an opposing player, which is a dangerous situation. Some people seem to have excellent talent to become a goalkeeper. However, it would be useless if the player doesn’t sharpen his goalkeeping skill. One important concept of goalkeeping is to make sure that we are always in front of the ball when we want to make a save. There are also other skills that goalkeeper should master, such as punching and diving, as well as throwing, kicking, passing and catching the ball. Decision making process and angles should also be optimized.
We should be able to master goalkeeping skill through repetition and it is important that goalkeepers can be kept on their toes by asking them to practice continuously. One good way is to perform real competitions between goalkeepers and defenders and the attacking strikers and midfielders. It means that team members are able to catch up with one another in terms of skills. Goalkeepers should also be asked to do it for real, when other team members train their corner kicks and free kicks skills. It means that goalkeepers will always be in good shape, physically and mentally.
