GOALKEEPER TECHNIQUE,

TECHNIQUE ELEMENTS OF SOCCER PLAYERS AND METHODOLOGY

No part this book can be copied or duplicated in any way without the written permission of the publisher.

ISBN 953-97496-1-1

CIP _ Cataloging in publication National and University Library, Zagreb

UDK 796 .332 .015 ( 035 )

PAVICIC;, Ivica

Goalkeeper Technique, Technique Elements of Soccer Players and Methodology / Ivica _ Iko Pavicic.

- Zagreb: I. Pavicic;, 2010.

: ilustr.; 24 cm

ISBN 953-97496-1-1

400616031

Professor IVICA - IKO PAVICIC

GOALKEEPER TECHNIQUE,

TECHNIQUE ELEMENTS OF SOCCER PLAYERS AND METHODOLOGY

EDITION, 2010

Professor IVICA - IKO PAVICIC

Reviewers

Professor IVAN RIHTAR

Professor MARIJAN PEJIC

Professor MLADEN SABLJAK

JOSIP KUŽE, Attorney and Professional Soccer Coach

Translated from Croatian

Translation Experts d.o.o.

Organization and preparation of printing

Printing:

Number of copies

INSCRIPTION

This is dedicated to my wife Leonora, my daughter Ana, my son Josip and my birthplace Županja, where the first football

was brought to Croatia from England in 1880.

Author:

Professor Ivica _ Iko Pavicic

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

I would like to thank the late Ljudevit Šinka (Cika) who was my teacher and football coach for his professional help.

I would like to thank the young talented players from Županja for their demonstrations: goalkeeper Miroslav Colic and

players Željko Ðakovic and Hrvoje Kovacevic. For the photographs, I would like to thank Professor Zlatko Barišic. I

would also like to thank everyone else who has contributed to the publishing of this book.

Author

Professor Ivica _ Iko Pavicic

PREFACE

The book "GOALKEEPER TECHNIQUE, TECHNIQUE ELEMENTS OF SOCCER PLAYERS AND

METHODOLOGY" with its contents encompasses: technique description, methodology and mistakes. All elements have

been described for the technique of soccer players and goalkeepers and what needs to be done with goalkeepers and

soccer players in order for them to master the technique.

This book can be used by professors and teachers of physical education and health culture, pedagogues, students for

lessons in soccer in their regular school instructions, coaches who lead soccer schools as well as players which want with

the aid of this to book to add, improve and remove negative traits.

This book has 36 pictures connected with the text.

Numerous works have been written about soccer. In spite of this, there are still an insufficient number of words written on this topic, especially when we consider the transposition of scientific thought into the concrete daily practice of soccer training. This work belongs exactly to this precious category of work, which in a simple and very acceptable way shows the huge wealth of knowledge about soccer in a way in which every coach can create a training process adequate to different categories of soccer players, namely different degrees of soccer knowledge.

At the same time, this book can be called a philosophy founded on experiences of numerous apparently small things with which soccer is full, and exactly on these small things, which authors rarely examine, depends the success in improving individuals in soccer.

There is no doubt that every coach will have a good ally in this text for designing training sessions, especially when we consider the improvement of technical knowledge of goalkeepers, improvement of single elements of soccer technique, and also in the methodology of drill formation.

Because of everything that I have mentioned this book can be recommended as exceptionally beneficial and of importance for the promotion of soccer. In the framework of kineziological science which in a systematic way studies management laws, the training process represents that part of science which answers the three basic questions and these are: what, how much and how should one exercise in order to achieve the expected results in soccer.

Josip Kuže, Attorney and Professional Soccer Trainer

TEXTBOOK FOR ELEMENTARY SCHOOL, HIGH SCHOOL AND UNIVERSITY LEVELS

GOALKEEPER TECHNIQUE

Goalkeeper Technique

The goalkeeper in soccer a team is the player whose task is to defend against entry of a ball inside the goalpost. In order

for him to be able to more easily accomplish his task on a specified playground space i.e. inside the penalty area, soccer

rules allow him to use his hands.

The tasks of a goalkeeper also determine the importance of his game as well his importance in soccer. Generally, the

goalkeeper is the player who presents the last barrier in the penetration towards the goalposts. A well-prepared

goalkeeper presents a large help to his team, and a goalkeeper of poor quality will undermine the effort of the other ten

players.

Development and Play of the Goalkeeper

The development of the goalkeeper's game represents the result of the development of modern soccer. In ancient times

soccer did not limit the number of players and their roles in the game itself. About the goalkeeper in the current sense of

the word there was no mention nor any need. Everyone attacked and defended. The use of hands in soccer games of that

time, although only to certain limits, was permitted for every player. About an express role of the goalkeeper there was

absolutely no mention.

In 1863 when the foundation of modern soccer was being created the so called "old rule of the game" was brought into

being. At that time a goal counted when the ball would fly over between two barriers of a considerably larger height than

a man. Along with the rules of the game of that time, a goalkeeper would have been redundant. At that time there did not

even exist an upper bar, and later just one pronounced tape was set. Only near the end of the XIX century the rugby-goal

was replaced with the modern goal.

At one time goals were without nets.

In the year 1870, the use of hands was prohibited to players on the field. In 1871, it was declared that one player

defending the goal could still use his hands. It is interesting to note the rules of the game at that the time allowed the

goalkeeper to use his hands on his whole half of the field. Only later the use of hands was restricted within the dimensions

of today's penalty area.

Therefore, throughout a few decades the role and task of the goalkeeper considerably grew, and today the goalkeeper in a

soccer team fulfills the most responsible role.

Work (Activity) of the Goalkeeper

The aim of the goalkeeper is to defend and protect the goal, and also to try to stop any ball going between the goalposts

with any part of his body. However, the removal of the danger is not carried out only by standing in front of the goal.

Frequently the goalkeeper is forced to abandon his goal and to get involved (run out) into the game on the field.

Therefore, from a contemporary goalkeeper the game demands that he be provided with something more than just the

work of defending his goal. He is the first player who moves the attack of his own team, after he has removed the attack of

the opposing team. Well-informed and quickly executed kicking out with the leg or throwing out the ball with the hand,

may be more than once of large benefit to the beginning and start of an attack.

The goalkeeper in his activity has a significant role in his leading work during the game itself. His position allows him to

see the whole pitch, and because of this, he is the player who manages the team, especially the defenders.

Therefore, the goalkeeper is the most universal player of the soccer team. The goalkeeper needs, not only near the goal, to

act in managing and commanding the defense and attack, and moreover he must understand certain situations and needs

to move also into the field, if he is forced to do so. In order for the goalkeeper to be provided with suitable diverse activity

during the game, he must have physical and mental characteristics that stand out from other players.

Physical and Mental Traits Necessary for a Goalkeeper

In the first place, a goalkeeper needs have suitable physical characteristics.

1. Based on experience, the most favorable physical height is between 178-188 centimeters. In the case of shorter

goalkeepers there exists the danger that high lobbing balls will be difficult for him to reach. A shorter goalkeeper is in an

especially unfavorable situation when a struggle in the air is happening in front of the goal. A goalkeeper who is too tall is

also limited in his movement. Tall goalkeepers are clumsy at catching and throwing balls that travel low along the

ground.

2. Body weight and height should be in a suitable proportion. A large goalkeeper is not movable enough. However, a

goalkeeper of light bodyweight forward players can easily push away when struggling in front of the goal.

3. Linked to bodyweight we need to consider the question of strength utilization. Be it at kicking out balls with the leg, at

throwing out with the hand, in the struggle for a high ball that goes on in front of the goal. We should count on strength.

Suitable bodyweight is inseparable from a good goalkeeper. A good goalkeeper with his physical strength acquires

authority in front of his goal towards forward players.

4. A ball directed towards the goal does not always come directly in the hands of the goalkeeper. It comes towards the goal

at times high and at times sideways. Frequently the goalkeeper cannot reach such balls in any other way other than to

jump high. Flexibility is an important requirement especially when removing a ball that has been directed aside as well as

when catching and boxing high balls.

5. In given situations during a game, the goalkeeper must frequently intervene in a rapid manner. This is especially the

case when we think of running out, where the success or failure of the goalkeeper's intervention is measured in tenth of a

second. In unexpected or sudden situations frequently the goalkeeper uses as a help his ability of quick reaction or, in

soccer language, his fast reflexes.

6. The goalkeeper who does not have at his disposal a high level of skill will not be able to handle harder situations

without dangerous physical injuries. It is enough we mention only throwing for the ball and its end (falling on the ground)

i.e. also a sudden fall on the ground. Both of these movements demand from the goalkeeper a high level of skill.

7. Only a flexible goalkeeper, who has at his disposal agile joints and loose muscles, will be able to skillfully carry out

unusual movements. Stiff, motionless muscles and joints present a serious barrier in the execution of hard movements of

goalkeepers.

8. Without the necessary fitness (psychophysical readiness) the goalkeeper is able to produce only limited results.

Throughout matches he needs to frequently, with full speed, run out to distances from 30-40 meters. During successive

and serial attacks of the opponent he needs to at every moment throw himself at the ball, jump high up, as well as shoot

out. For this complex and diverse physical activity the goalkeeper needs to prepare systematically with versatile condition

training. The mentioned points of view show the importance of the need for the goalkeeper to completely physically

prepare himself. The listed physical abilities however alone are not sufficient in order for him to actually and successfully

perform the tasks that a goalkeeper faces. It is necessary for him to also own characteristic mental traits and also to

develop them constantly and jointly in order for a soccer goalkeeper to confirm and achieve his physical abilities.

What are these Characteristic Mental Traits?

1. The goalkeeper needs to have courage, especially in dangerous situations. The goalkeeper who is afraid to throw

himself in front of the leg of a forward who is penetrating towards the goal or does not calculate the necessary moment

for punching out the ball which flies in the air or to catch it, he is a soccer player with a considerably diminished value.

2. A calm neurovegetative system to a considerable degree raises his capacity level. A nervous, hasty goalkeeper will make

heavy mistakes not just during defensive activity but his behavior and stature will spill over also to the other players.

3. An intelligent goalkeeper at any given moment in the game knows how to evaluate the situation and in the case of

unspecified aims knows how to choose the best solutions. He must be aware of the fact that he is the last defender whose

mistakes can rarely be corrected because it usually and most often means a received goal.

4. The goalkeeper's play demands a complex ability to observe. The goalkeeper needs to maintain a link with the game

even when it is going on far from the goal. He must take even more care if the center of the game approaches the goal. He

must have, in front of his eyes, at the same time the movement of opponent forwards, his own players as well as the ball.

He must see also the intentions of the opponent in order to on time resolve the situation.

5. For fully awake attention it is very useful to develop also feeling for tact and rhythm. If the goalkeeper evaluates the

distance to the opponent well, the position as well as the direction of flight of the ball and its speed, he will be able to

immediately calculate also the right moment for intervention and will intervene in a good pace.

6. His attention and observation provide him with excellent help in his creative thinking and work. A good goalkeeper

reads the opponent's movements ahead of time. He simply reads the opponent's thoughts. He knows ahead of time what

will come from a given situation and is prepared for it. There are many goalkeepers who simply attract balls. It is much

easier to position oneself ahead of time where the ball will pass as opposed to dangerously throwing oneself for the ball.

This type of goalkeeper is in charge of his rich creative power and uses these mental traits superbly during setting himself

up.

7. With the goalkeeper's game, will power has also a large importance. When lacking will power, some mistakes will easily

bury self-confidence, which is necessarily and significant in the role of the goalkeeper.

8. To which extent self-confidence will be shaken depends amongst other things also on what role the player has in his

team's game. Some mistakes of forward players will not influence the result of the team to a great extent. However, if the

player plays near his goal, the danger is greater for the goal because of the consequence of his mistake, and the

responsibility to the group grows in that proportion. A received goal as a result of his serious mistake will mentally finish

off a conscientious goalkeeper and undermine his certainty. If the goalkeeper does not have at his disposal strong will

power, one mistake will follow after the other. Will power and self-confidence are victorious over factors that prevent a

person and inhibit him in his activity at the goal. The goalkeeper will still be able to use his abilities for the sake of the

group. The task and role of the goalkeeper completely stands out from tasks of other soccer players. Complex and varied

tasks, specific movements and movements which are performed in dangerous circumstances as well as heavy

responsibilities in front of the group demand from the goalkeeper physical and mental traits which in to considerable

degree stand out from the average i.e. such traits which do not have to be unconditionally owned by other players on the

field. The task and role of certain groups of players on the field places completely different requirements in front of

players in terms of physical and mental aspects and generally there is no large difference between attacking and

defending players.

The role of the goalkeeper is something completely different. The play of the goalkeeper requires such complex physical

and mental abilities, to which to such a degree is inclined only a small number of soccer players. The play of the

goalkeeper is completely something else because it demands training that stands out from training of other players, as

well as training in psychological education.

Systematization of Goalkeeper Technique

The final aim of the goalkeeper is to defend his goalposts from a goal. In order to achieve this aim he seeks to position

himself between the goalposts so that balls directed between the goalposts can be caught or rebounded with maximum

certainty.

In addition to defensive tasks the role and participation in starting attacks is important when he directs the caught ball

into the field.

Because of these two tasks, goalkeeper technique is divided into two groups that are:

a) defensive technique

b) offensive technique

Systematization of Defensive Goalkeeper Technique

The goalkeeper tries to hold on to, rebound or deflect the ball that is heading towards him with any part of his body. The

surest way to defend is if the goalkeeper catches the ball and then brings it towards himself. For this he does not always

have a chance. Situations happen when the goalkeeper is physically incapable to hold on to the ball with his hands. He

must then satisfy himself with punching or kicking the ball with his hands or legs.

In the same way as catching the ball, throwing out of the ball will be to a considerable extent made easier if before

intervention we choose that position from where the ball will be easiest to disable, from where it will be easiest and fastest

to perform movement towards the ball. The construction of this wanted starting position the goalkeeper executes without

the ball.

Based on what has just been explained, the defensive technique of the game of the goalkeeper is divided into the following

parts:

1. Movements without the ball:

a) elementary position (position)

b) setting up the ball

2. Movements that are performed with the ball:

a) catching the ball

b) boxing

c) throwing for the ball

d) punching or kicking (cropping up)

e) defending with the foot

f) ball leading with the hand and the foot.

In this Chapter, we need to particularly point out one efficient weapon in the game of a modern goalkeeper, and this is

freeing the ball by running out. Is this activity of the goalkeeper a technical or tactical element?

The aim of this activity is how to deflect the ball and therefore it unconditionally belongs into the group of technical

elements. From this viewpoint it is hard to decided that running out is a special technical element, and if is not, in which

group should one put it into within defensive technique.

On running out in further text we will only pay a passing comment as well as on other movements that are performed

with the ball. However, on running out as a special technical element we will not talk. In order to remove the danger of

the ball, the crucial moment is when the ball is caught or rebounded; to throw ourselves into the legs of the opponent or

kick the ball with the foot in front of the opponent, and this belongs to one group of movements.

With running are related also other factors. The most important moment of the start of running out is the speed and

closeness of opponent, but they do not belong to the circle of technical elements. On these factors there will be a discussion

in the tactical part.

Division of Attack Goalkeeper Technique

I have already mentioned that the goalkeeper cannot solve his tasks only by defending against the ball directed towards

the goal. In today's development of soccer, from the every certain player as well as from the goalkeeper we need to

demand more.

A modern goalkeeper may be the initiator and starter of attacks of his team if he directs the caught ball quickly and

correctly to his teammate who is in the best situation.

Based on the presented attack goalkeeper technique consists of fast and correct:

a) throwing out of the ball with his hand on the ground

b) throwing out the ball with his hand in the air and

c) kicking out with the foot.

I do not claim that the attack initiative, therefore the technique of goalkeeper attack, is of first-class importance and that

it to a considerable measure surpasses the defensive technique. I am not talking about that at all. The primary task of the

goalkeeper is to remove the danger from the goal, to defend the goal, and to direct the caught ball as fast as possible and

as accurately as possible into the field.

Goalkeeper Technique without the Ball

The Elementary Goalkeeper Position

The goalkeeper is in many cases suddenly and in the shortest possible time in some location, runs out, bends, jumps up or

throws himself for the ball. In order for the goalkeeper to be able to as fast as possible to begin his movement so that he

can defend against the ball he needs to take up a rational starting position. The goalkeeper should stand in a position with

feet apart in the width of 1.5 soccer boots. He should bend his knees moderately and push them forward so that the weight

of his body falls on the front part of his feet. The upper part of his body from the hip should be leaned moderately

forward, and his hands bent in the elbows sets sideways. Elbows should be bent so that his forearms are horizontal. Palms

are turned upwards. Gaze is aimed at the ball (Figure 1: The Elementary Goalkeeper Position).

From the described position of the body it is easy to move. Since the goalkeeper stands with feet apart, he insures a

balanced position. The bending of the knees is unconditionally required in rebounding (jump) from the ground. A fast

jump is also accelerated by the weight of his body being on his feet. The hand position is rational. In any direction one can

quickly move after the ball.

The elementary position of the goalkeeper after a longer time tires and stiffens the body. Fast and well-coordinated

movements can be performed only with relaxed muscles. Therefore, during the elementary position we need to strive that

the position of the body be relaxed. If we have through a longer time been forced to stand in the elementary position

because of possible intervention and mixing in the game, then after the goal is freed from danger, we can make a few

loosening exercises (light running to and fro in place, two gymnastic exercises for relaxation). This will loosen the rigidity

of muscles that resulted from longer standing in the elementary position.

Setting the Goalkeeper

The goalkeeper is rarely obliged to be in the elementary position for a long time, usually only during a free kick or

penalty kick. During the match the goalkeeper changes position depending on the position of the ball

He always places himself where he has the largest chance of catching the ball. During setting up he stands with his face

towards the ball. From the elementary position he moves to the side with steps similar to hops. With so-called

accompanying steps we track the position of the ball (on the way towards the goal) under the angle that divides into two

halves.

During movement (hopping) between steps, the feet do not twist. Their longitudinal axis is turned in the direction of the

ball. Movements to the side begin with that leg which falls closer to the direction of movement. For example, if we need to

move to the right, the movement begins with a small step forward with the right leg. When the step to the side has been

completed the center of gravity of the body for one short moment is on the straddled leg, and then we move closer the

other leg towards the straddled one and the center of gravity of the body is positioned equally on both feet, therefore we

again take up and stand in the elementary position.

In the case when we need to make movements for a larger distance and to take a stand, then we perform this with a

number of continuous steps forward, one after the other to the side, but we always take care of sustaining the position of

the body as described in the elementary position. During taking a stand we strive to not, during stepping forward to the

side, separate too much from the ground. The center of gravity of the body does not make large bobbing in the vertical

direction. Let it move right-and-left in the horizontal level.

Steps forward to the side should not be stretched too much. It is preferred to with more tiny steps sideways take up the

wanted position, with one-two longer steps to the side. In this way it is easier to transfer bodyweight from one leg to the

other. If the center of gravity of the body for a longer time lies on one leg this restrains the fast exchange and change of

the course of the body, and which again different moments and situations in front of the goal allow.

Goalkeeper Technique with the Ball Catching the Ball

The surest defense is when the goalkeeper catches the ball with his hands. This defensive way is appropriate when the goalkeeper catches the ball directed to the goals and by this removes or clears the dangerous situation, unless he makes a mistake when catching the ball. Safety when catching the ball to a considerable degree increases the value of success of a goalkeeper. This gives self-confidence to the goalkeeper, and also to the entire team. The goalkeeper who catches balls unsafely and frequently drops from his hands, loses not just his own self-confidence but also confuses his own players, and cheers opponent players.

Safely catching the ball has to meet one elementary precondition and this is that an appropriate barrier be set in front of the ball. In front of an incoming ball we need to set both palms in a way that the ball is stopped and absorbed from further travel.

With hands it is possible to stop the ball if we take correct stance. The position of hands and fingers completely resembles that during throw-ins. We must pay attention to that the palm makes a barrier behind the ball, and not sideways or that the ball is not touched on the upper or bottom part. During catching the ball with both palms let them be one next to the other so that a strong ball cannot go through the palms (Figure 2: Catching the Ball in the Standing Position).

The right way in which to catch the ball with the hands if possible needs to be ensured. The further path of the ball needs to be stopped with some part of the body. It can happen in certain cases, (slippery ball) in the event of the lack of attention or because of incorrectly holding hands etc., the ball slides away between the hands. In order to avoid and remove such mistakes, the goalkeeper needs to ensure the ball in other ways, namely to perform the catching of the ball in front of the foot, belly, chest or perhaps in front of the head.

Catching a Low Ball

Balls which roll on the ground or which go above the ground can be defended against in two ways:

a) from a standing position with parallel legs or

b) half-kneeling (in the half-kneeling position).

Catching the Ball while Keeping the Feet Parallel

Balls that move on the ground the goalkeeper can quickly and surely defend against so that he stands opposite the ball

that is coming and also by positioning himself into a small straddle.

Movement Technique

Let the feet be set apart at most by 10-12 centimeters. Let the longitudinal axis be mutually parallel. In this position as

much as possible with stretched knees, the goalkeeper bends his trunk forward. Keeping his hands parallel in front of his

legs, he lays down towards the ground so that the tips of his fingers almost touch the ground. The tips of his little fingers

from both palms touch. In this way both hands in front of the incoming ball build a partition filter. The ball after being

touched with the fingers, in other words with the palms, because of its inertia rolls away up the forearms which are one

next to the other and in the meantime we set the trunk upright.

Using bending of the elbows and over the forearms, we lead the ball to the chest and close the further path of the ball, that

is in order for the ball to rebound back we cover it with the forearms. Therefore the ball arrives in the "nest" which has

been made on the chest using the forearms and palms.

The gaze is directed towards the ball up to that moment when with the forearms have closed the ball, and during the

correction of the trunk the gaze is immediately directed onto the field.

Movement Training

Before we begin with instruction we need to convince ourselves that the goalkeeper has sufficient flexibility and

relaxation. Many candidates for goalkeepers have stiff hip muscles. Muscles that help bend the upper legs are short. The

player, student cannot lean forward in order to reach the ground with relaxed fingers of the hand in front of the knee.

Before the instruction in defending in this way and in parallel with this we need to soften the thigh (hip) muscles to the

appropriate degree as well as the muscles that help the bending.

In this instruction of the goalkeeper we act according to the following order:

1. Performing movements from the elementary position, without the ball. This exercise should later be performed on the

sound of the whistle.

2. Movements should be performed from the standing position and also collect the easy balls which move towards the

goalkeeper. In any case this movement should be started from the elementary position.

3. Defending against a strong rolling ball, and then also the ball that is shot with the foot from larger distances. The

movement needs to be performed once when positioning to the left side and once when positioning to the right side. The

teammate that spins the ball moves in front of the goal line (4-5 m), in parallel with the goal line and at a distance of 4-5

m. The goalkeeper with the usual technique of positioning follows the movement of his teammate and suddenly collects

the rolling ball from the ground.

4. We begin the performance of this movement from the repeated position, but after running backwards. The teammate

spins the ball towards the goal around the penalty area. The goalkeeper in the beginning catches the ball when running

slowly, and then while running as fast as possible.

5. The goalkeeper catches the ball that is directed from different places in front of the goal. Players shoot balls into the

goal quickly one after the other so that the goalkeeper does not have much time to prepare. The goalkeeper immediately

throws the caught ball with his hands to the player that shot at him.

Mistakes that Happen while Catching the Ball

a) During performing these movements the highest number of mistakes happen because the goalkeeper is not relaxed

enough. Knees are bent during bending the body forward and down. In this way the ball can easily hit the knee that has

been extended forward and the ball rebounds.

b) It is incorrect to not positioned the knees in parallel. The knees can open wide in the event of bending them and in this

way the ball is not sufficiently ensured.

c) Goalkeepers most frequently make mistakes because of their arrogance and exaggerated self-confidence and partly

because of the rigidity of their muscles they catch balls from the ground from a position with feet wide apart. This way of

defending the goal is very risky because the hands have no insurance against closing the path of the ball backwards.

Under no circumstances should we allow defending against the ball in a position with the feet being wide apart.

Catching the Ball in the Half-Kneeling Position

This method of defense applies to those goalkeepers who are not relaxed and flexible enough or who strive to insure a

large safety of the goal. Based on experience this technique is widespread inside a wider circle of goalkeepers because it

offers more security as compared to the one previously mentioned.

Technique of Catching the Ball in the Half-Kneeling Position

With this method of defense the contribution of the upper part of the body and hands is almost completely identical to the

earlier described technique.

The main differences turn out to be in the position of the legs. The weight of the body is on the supporting leg and the one

that is bent in the knee. The longitudinal axis of the feet supporting the leg is in the direction of incoming ball. Therefore

the tip of the football boot is turned to the side. We turn the other leg a little out from the hip and come down into the

kneeling position close to the leg on which we are leaning on. However the bent knee is not required to completely touch

the ground. On the contrary. It is an advantage if it does not touch the field because then getting up and starting is much

faster. The upper legs are turned to the side and close the path of the ball towards the goal. Hands should be stretched out

between the two legs towards the field and bring the ball over the palms and forearms up to the chest, that is up to the

belly into the "nest". The gaze is directed onto the ball.

If the ball does not spin on the ground but is flying closer to the ground, it is necessary to bend the knees to lesser degree.

Hands are bent in the elbows, and the palms are upturned. The palms and the forearms held in parallel are transferred at

a slant towards the incoming ball. The ball having lost is momentum, rolls up to the chest in the corner that is composed

of the forearms and palms.

During the catching of a ball in the half-kneeling position we must take care that the lower part of the supporting leg and

knees of the leg on which we are kneeling, are close to each other. In the case of a mistake in catching the ball in this way

we are putting barriers on its further path (Figure 3: Catching the Ball in the Half-Kneeling Position).

Mistakes that Happen when Catching a Ball in the Half-Kneeling Position

During catching of the ball the most frequent mistake is that the forearms are not in a parallel position. Two elbows are at

a small distances one from other. The palms are spread. Therefore the hands can safely stop the ball. The ball hits the

chest, and then rebounds, and can then unguardedly slip out between the elbows. It happens rarely also that the knee of

the kneeling leg has not been secured in the height of the ball. This causes the mistake in which between two hands there

is no insurance because of which the ball can easily slip into the goal.

Catching a Semi-high Ball

If the ball flies at the height of the knees or lower than the head then the technique of catching the ball changes.

Technique of Catching Semi-High Balls

The goalkeeper places himself in a straddle position or in a straddle with a step to the side with the distance between his

legs around the length of one soccer boot and so that the weight of his body is mostly on the leg which is in front, in other

words on the foot. In knees both legs are slightly bent. If possible the knees should be brought closer to each other. The

top part of the body should slightly lean forward, and the arms should be bent and stretched forward in the elbows, and

the palms turned up. The ball will roll over the slanted palms, and rolling over the forearm, hit the chest. However, before

the ball touches the chest the palms and the forearms from the elbows are pulled upward and we press the ball towards

the body.

At the moment when the ball touches the chest the weight of the body moves from the foreleg to the back leg. In this way

the striking surface that stands opposite the ball is lowered backward. Therefore the force of the ball is reduced to a

considerable degree.

The ball that is coming at the height of the chest or higher, while standing on the ground, we will not be able to catch in

the earlier described way. We then jump up slightly with one or both legs enough to be able to and know how to take onto

the chest. Fencing in and closuring the ball will improve if the knee of the front leg is slightly drawn upwards.

When defending against balls which move at the height of the head there exists another catching method, which is

generally used when the opponent is not close by. Therefore we should not count on the opposing forwards to attack the

goalkeeper.

From the basic position of the arms bent in the elbows we lift the arms up to the line of the chest so that the palms are

turned forward. The thumbs and the index finger of the arms are close to each other. The position of the legs corresponds

with the position of the legs in the basic position, and the top of the body is almost completely vertical.

At the moment when the ball comes in touch with the palms, bring the arms slightly backward. We diminish, amortize the

strength of the ball. If this giving in backwards is done with the appropriate speed, the ball will be calmed down in the

"nest" which is made up of the palms and fingers. After the ball has been caught, unless the opponent is not standing

close by and we do not believe that anyone will attack us, we then bring the ball to the chest. This is done so that the

palms softly drop the ball, and the ball falls into the "nest" which we have in the meanwhile made from our arms and

chest (Figure 4: Catching a Semi-High Ball).

Training in Catching Semi-High Balls

Training in catching semi-high balls is performed in the following way:

1. A player takes a preparatory position for saving. He straddles in the lateral side or straddles in the lateral side with a

step forward, hands bent in elbows with arms and palms stretched in front. The ball is placed on the palms, and then it is

pulled towards the chest several times and closed into a "nest".

2. From the standing position the goalkeeper saves a ball that was thrown from a distance of 3 - 4 meters.

3. A ball that was thrown from a distance of 8 - 10 meters is received on the chest during the run out.

4. From a distance of 8 - 10 meters a ball is thrown to the lateral side of a goalkeeper at about 1 - 1.5 meters, the

goalkeeper saves it with the described technique, and with familiar maneuvering movements to the side. Hopping is

performed in the form of small steps.

5. From a distance of 14 - 16 meters a player shoots a sharp ball with his foot. The goalkeeper catches it, either while

moving to the side or forward, or perhaps with a little jump up.

Further display of training the saving of semi-high balls will be connected with training the saving of high balls, because

these two movements are basically almost entirely identical.

Mistakes in Saving Semi-High Balls

a) When saving a ball that is caught on the chest, it often happens that the forearm is late on its way up. Then the ball will

rebound from the chest and a goalkeeper will drop the ball. When the ball touches the spread forearms it is necessary to

immediately close the take-off path of the ball.

b) A rather frequent mistake is that certain goalkeepers keep their elbows extended. Such a position of the elbows

provides the possibility that the ball, which rebounded from the chest will unguardedly slide between the elbows.

Catching High Balls

When catching balls that move above the head, we need to pay special attention to the position of the arms, that is,

between the arms there is no blocking surface that would stop the ball on its further path. Therefore, we need to pay full

attention to the position of the arms.

Technique of Catching High Balls

We can catch a high ball while standing on the ground and then jumping in the air.

If the ball flies at such height at which it can be reached by the hands and on the ground, a goalkeeper positions himself in

a little straddle stand with one step forward, and shifts his bodyweight to the front leg. Both knees are slightly bent. This

position ensures the necessary balance. The arms are slightly bent in the elbows and lifted above the head aslant. Palms

are next to one another and turned frontward. Fingers are slightly open, and two thumbs are almost touching. Fists are

closed a little forward.

At the moment when the ball touches the fingers, bodyweight is quickly shifted on the leg that is behind, and the fists are

eased off backward. This diminishes the power of the ball. If we need to catch a very powerful ball then, if necessary, we

ease off the arms from the shoulders backward. We monitor the ball with the eyes until we catch it. The caught ball often

needs to be hidden (removed) from the opponent who attacks us. In such cases, the procedure is similar to the description

of catching the semi-high balls.

After stopping the ball, we drop it for a moment and put down the arms, which are bent in the elbows, and then, when the

ball is caught in the nest so prepared, we close it from above with the palms of our hands.

With really strong kicks, it is rather risky to try to catch the ball that moves high and especially if the ball is slippery for

some reason. Catching balls is therefore risky because there is no securing surface between the palms. In order to avoid

surprises, goalkeepers who try and strive to be sure do not try to catch a slippery and powerful ball at any price. If there

is no opponent around, then they first hit the ball to the ground with firmly closed and squeezed palms and then they

catch it with their hands. However, if they anticipate the attack from the opponent, and catching the ball is not safe, then

they knock out the ball and throw it across the goal.

If it is impossible to catch the ball while standing on the ground, it needs to be caught with jumping up. Catching the ball

and bringing it on the chest is performed in the same way as catching on the ground. Take-off from the ground can be

performed with one leg or with both legs, depending at which height a goalkeeper needs to jump, that is, if there is enough

space for the run-up before the jump. In jumping up, flexibility plays a significant role. That is, the swing of the arms

cannot be used in such way with the run-up, getting down on the ground or after the rebound, as it is possible with other

jumps. A goalkeeper, when jumping after the ball, extends his arms upward instead of swinging them.

Landing on the ground is usually performed in such a way that the body comes down on the ground in a straddle with the

forward sideways step, and in such a way that first the reflex leg touches the ground, and then the swinging leg. Players

rarely step on the ground (fall on the ground) with both legs. The fall is cushioned so that the knees are slightly bent after

coming down (Figure 5: Catching High Balls).

Training in Catching High Balls

To distinguish the catching of balls, training the catching of high balls will start first with catching of semi-high balls. In

training the saving of high balls, I recommend to use the following sequence.

1. We hold the ball in front of our face with both hands. We let it slide back from the wrists, and then we push it forward

again in order to get the feel of loosening up of the hands backward.

2. We hold the ball at head height with both hands, supporting the one third of the ball that falls towards us. Then we

drop the ball and let it fall into the corner made of the lower arm and the chest.

3. A ball that is thrown at the chest height from a distance of 4 - 5 meters is defended while standing on the ground.

4. A ball that is thrown at the head height from a distance of 4 - 5 meters is caught while standing on the ground. A player

receives the caught ball upon the chest.

5. After that, a player catches a ball that was thrown at a reachable height and then the ball falls on his chest. First, a

player tries to catch the ball perfectly. When he has succeeded, he trains this drill with the ball falling on his chest.

6. Catching of high balls and bringing them on the chest with jumping up on one and on both legs.

7. A player throws the ball with his hand in different heights and directions, and then he kicks it with his leg. The ball

now must be saved in place after moving (positioning) with jumping up on both legs and on one leg.

Mistakes in Defending against High Balls

a) The inexperienced goalkeepers often make a mistake when they do not support the ball with their hands behind, but

sideways. This method of catching high balls is particularly dangerous because there is no security between the hands. If a

goalkeeper supports the ball sideways with his palms, a wet ball will easily slip out of his hands and will fly into the goal

above his head.

b) Catching the ball with firm joints is a frequent mistake that happens to less capable goalkeepers. Power of a strongly

kicked ball will not decrease, but quite the contrary, as a result of a firm and stiff handhold, it will easily rebound from

the hand.

Boxing the Ball

It is not always possible to catch a ball with hands. In front of a goal, there are often such jams that make it impossible for

a goalkeeper to choose the most favorable place to defend a ball. Several players jump up after one high ball, so catching

that ball is not safe. It happens that a goalkeeper is obstructed, attacked and pushed inside the goal while saving. In

addition, it is not always safe to catch the ball when it is damp and slippery. In such and similar cases a goalkeeper is

forced to give up catching the ball and instead to rebound it with his fists.

Boxing is an unsafe, dangerous way of defending the ball. Primarily because the hitting surface of the fists is small, so the

hit in the ball is not certain. Boxing is also unsafe because the ball, after colliding with the fist, returns to the field. A

goalkeeper controls the ball only for one short moment. On the other hand, if a goalkeeper gets accidentally pushed away

during boxing, then his activity will be temporarily uncertain. At the same time, if he gets pushed away after catching the

ball, the ball that is pressed against him is still in his possession. Therefore, if a goalkeeper catches the ball, he is the

master in the following course of the game, and if he boxes the ball, he only interferes (intervenes) in the course of the

games.

Apart from all the negative aspects, boxing the ball is an important weapon of a goalkeeper. We could even say that it is

necessary. Goalkeepers use their every chance to seize the ball (to catch the ball), but they do not try it at all costs. When

they see that catching the ball is unsafe, then they box it.

Boxing is not a widespread practice. The reason is mostly because forward players attack a goalkeeper, and they do not

let him save the goal peacefully.

Boxing Technique

Boxing is usually performed in connection with the upward rebound on one leg. A goalkeeper is forced to jump on both

legs only when there is a big crowd. Accordingly, the movements during boxing the ball consist of the following parts:

a) Run-up

b) Hammering on the ground

c) Take-off from the ground

d) Flight and boxing

e) Landing on the ground

There is not always enough time and place for the run-up. Length of the run-up determines direction of the coming ball

and its speed. It is not necessary to have a fast run-up, that is, a goalkeeper has the advantage over all the other players

because he also uses his hands. If possible, the run-up should be performed in the direction of the ball breakout if it is

performed by players who are in front of a goalkeeper. The last running step should be longer than usual. Gravity center

of the body should fall down a little. After coming down to the ground a goalkeeper supports himself on the heel of the leg

with which he will take off from the ground, and then, by stretching out the knee of the back leg, he shifts the gravity

center above the reflex leg, which is slightly bent in the knee (Figure 6: Technique of Boxing a Ball).

Take-off begins from the heel of the reflex leg, then we transpose to the foot of the reflex leg with resolute stretching of the

knee, and then with a sudden and strong jerk of the knee of the other leg we raise up. Rising up is helped by bodyweight

that is set on the reflex leg and it is also helped when we vigorously swing both hands upward alongside the body. After

the final take-off from the surface, at the beginning of the flight, both fists are placed one next to the other. Hands are in

front of the body, bent in the elbows and stretched out towards the coming ball.

A swing, an upward jerk of the knee has an important role in raising the body up with a take-off on one leg.

When the body on its flight curve reaches the peak, then the hands quickly stretch in the elbows and hit the ball with the

fists. How do we make a hitting surface of a fist? We clench our fists, and then we put them together in such a way that

the front finger joints create a flat surface. When boxing the ball, this is a hitting surface.

Landing on the ground is performed in the straddle with a forward sideways step. In order to soften the fall to the

ground, the knees are slightly bent, and within the shortest period we resume the basic body position.

For the sake of safety and impact of the boxed ball, both fists should be taken into consideration. If there is not enough

time for jumping up, or if we will not be able to reach the ball with both hands, then it is acceptable to perform boxing

with one hand. In that case, a rebounding hitting surface is made from the front finger joints of the hand that boxes the

ball. This way of boxing is uncertain from the position of handling and throwing the ball in certain directions because of

the small rebounding surface. With one hand, we can reach higher up and above the heads of those players who had

jumped up and reach the ball. This type of boxing is completely justified if it is not certain whether we will reach the ball

by boxing with both hands.

Boxing Technique Training

When training the boxing of a ball, we use the following sequence:

1. Training the boxing of a ball begins first with the correct development and improvement of handwork. A player, a

student, stands in the little straddle. His teammate throws the ball from a distance of 2 - 3 meters in a vertical arc, and a

student, a goalkeeper, stands in place and with two fists throws it back in the already shown way. If the handwork in this

simple drill would be performed wrongly, then the players should previously perform the same hand movements without

the ball.

2. If a student, a player, already has good boxing handwork, then he should connect it to the rebound from the ground,

but first without the ball. From the basic position, and after he has made one step, a goalkeeper should perform a take-off

from the ground. He should stretch his hands up in front of his body. It would be good to perform these movements with

the back turned to the goal. A student, a player, should try to reach with his hands as high as possible above the post.

3. After this, we use the hanged ball. The ball hangs from about 2.5 meters, and stands still in front of a goalkeeper, and

he stands at a distance of about 2 - 3 meters from the ball. After two steps he takes off upward, and with correct

handwork boxes the ball upward.

4. Then a player hits the ball back but after he has taken several steps from the run-up. A teammate who stands in front

of the goalkeeper throws the ball at him in a vertical arc. At first, the throwing distance should be 6 - 8 meters. This

distance gradually increases.

5. We return to the hanged ball. A player must box the swaying ball. The ball should hang at such a height that it could be

reached only after jumping up, and when the cord is completely vertical. In this way the student, the player, is forced to

pick the right moment for the jump.

6. A goalkeeper returns in front of the goal. The coach, the teacher, throws vertical balls from a distance of about 10 - 16

meters towards the lateral side of the goal, and a goalkeeper, after moving to the lateral side and jumping up, boxes the

ball back on the field. At this point, the direction of the boxed ball needs to be determined. We stick a peg or draw a circle

in the direction of touchlines. A goalkeeper tries to direct the ball towards the marked place or the target.

7. Finally, boxing is trained with the assistance of the opponent. Not only a goalkeeper, but also two opponents who try to

obstruct the boxing jump at the thrown ball.

When training the boxing, and especially if working with beginners, we must unconditionally give lighter balls to

students, players (volleyballs). This will prevent skin injuries and scratches on their hands.

Mistakes in Boxing

a) A frequent mistake is when a jump up, movements of arms and a kick are not harmonized, but instead the goalkeeper

performs them all independently one from the other. The movements are not coordinated.

b) In the moment of punching the ball, the elbows should be stretched like a spring. Many goalkeepers punch the ball

with already fully stretched arms, and then when sending the ball far, they use only the swing of a run-up and a jump up,

while the intensity of the fist punch is weak or none. However, this is not enough. Another frequent mistake is when

goalkeepers stretch their elbows too late after the performed punch. In both cases, the result is almost the same. The

distance of the boxed ball will be smaller.

c) While performing the boxing from a bigger run-up, a mistake, from experience, is that goalkeepers perform a take-off

from a great distance. Therefore, the jump is not longer but higher. In such cases, players, who have correctly jumped in

the air, usually reach the ball with the head before the goalkeeper reaches it with his stretched arms. Intensity of the

rebound and take-off should be effective upward. If the goalkeeper does not jump vertically up, you should practice with

him the rebound by marking the place of the take-off and of the fall on the ground.

d) Reason for kicking the ball out incorrectly is usually of a technical nature. Goalkeeper puts together both fists

superficially, so a flat rebounding surface is not as good as it should be. If the goalkeeper cannot focus his attention on the

position of the fists during the rebound, then his hands can be tied on wrists with a handkerchief or a rubber band,

during training sessions.

Saving the Goal by Diving

Even with the best positioning, a goalkeeper may be physically unable to catch the ball from the standing position or

during moving. With sudden shots from short range and with headers, a goalkeeper does not have enough time to run

from one corner to another. In such cases he dives for the ball. With the foot he rebounds from the ground and flies

through the air, and during sliding on the ground, or after it, he gains possession of the ball or kicks it away. Diving is

most attractive for the spectators.

There are goalkeepers who enjoy diving and they use it even when the ball is within their reach and during positioning or

in place standing on the ground. Frequent use of diving is individual and it is a matter of ability. It is important that the

goalkeeper is good at diving, but he should use this manner of saving only if there are no other ways of catching or

kicking the ball away.

Diving Technique

Diving can be used to save low, semi-high and high balls. In diving technique there are variations only in details,

depending upon the height of the approaching ball, however the technique of movement is in its essence identical for each

dive for the ball.

The following parts can be distinguished in the mechanism of movements during diving for the ball:

a) Ready position

b) Take-off

c) Dive

d) Catching and parrying the ball

e) Landing on the ground

f) Getting up

a) The ready position is equal to goalkeeper's basic position, except that the feet may be wider apart. If the ball comes

sideways to the goalkeeper, at such distance that it cannot be reached if he dives from place, then the goalkeeper tries to

assume the ready position by making sideway steps which correspond with movements during positioning or with cross

steps. Excellent goalkeepers use both.

What is a cross step, why is a dive performed faster in case of using cross steps? A goalkeeper performs a cross step if he

hooks the opposite leg in relation to the direction of diving, stands crossways in front of the supporting leg. He transfers

his bodyweight to this leg and, with the leg that remains in place, steps out in the direction of diving and takes off from

the ground with the same leg.

If a goalkeeper does not start with cross steps but with steps sideways, then he first steps out to the side with the leg closer

in respect to the direction of diving and he pulls back the other leg, and then with the leg stepping forward he moves aside

once more and at the same time takes off from the ground.

While with the cross step a goalkeeper can rebound from the ground at the same time as he performs the second step,

with diving for the ball from the sideway steps, he can rebound from the ground only simultaneously with the third step.

After assuming the ready position, the longitudinal axis of the foot rotates in the direction of the dive so that the following

movement, taking off from the ground, is easier to accomplish and more efficient.

b) Taking off from the ready position is performed so that the bodyweight, in respect to the direction of the dive, is

transferred with the farther leg to the other leg that is more bent in the knee. However, the trunk is slightly rotated in the

direction of the dive. As the goalkeeper starts to take off, his arms, which have so far been at the sides of the body, stretch

in the direction of the dive for the ball. The leg with which he takes from the ground quickly stretches in the knee, and the

knee of the other leg goes in the direction of the rebound.

c) The range of the dive depends on the intensity of the rebounding force from the ground. During the dive, the knees of

both legs are slightly bent and they loosely follow the direction in which the trunk dives. Arms are slightly bent in elbows

near the head and they stretch towards the ball. The lateral side of the body is turned towards the surface. The eyes are

firmly fixed upon the ball. The ball often rebounds during the dive. If the dive is long and nobody attacks the goalkeeper,

he will catch the ball.

d) However, if it is questionable whether we can catch ball or not, and the opponent is nearby, it is more correct to parry

the ball.

e) Landing on the ground. During the dive, and before its end, we must prepare to land on the ground and cushion the

fall. We can achieve this if we tuck the leg, which is closer to the ground, under our body so that the leg is bent in knees.

The force of landing can also be eased if during the dive we pull the ball closer to the body and if we bend both elbows.

Landing is cushioned by the leg closer to the ground and the arm, and then the body falls sideways on the ground.

After falling to the ground, we draw the ball completely to the body, and then defend ourselves from the opponent with

bent knees, and we pull the arms close to ourselves. If we are threatened by the opposing attack, it is correct to cover the

ball after the fall, turn around on knees and forearms so that the opponent is looking at our back. However, we should

particularly draw the goalkeeper's attention to the fact that, inside the goal or around the goal line, he should send the

ball out of the bounds of the field, because otherwise the ball can easily get inside the goal.

f) The concluding moment of landing on the ground is the preparation for getting up. With one arm, we press the ball to

the chest, and we support ourselves with the elbows of the arm that is closer to the ground. We pull back the leg that is

above the body, in the knee, and brace against the ground. Then, using the arms and the legs, we get up as soon as

possible.

We already know the technique of semi-high balls and their elimination, i.e. dive for ball, but we shall now look into some

more details.

The simplest and least risky process of diving for the ball is when the ball rolls at such distance from the goalkeeper that

there is no need for the take-off from the ground. In such case, we make a save by falling to the ground, where the body

does not separate from the ground.

The body rolls sideways on the ground. The first to fall down and come in contact with the ground is the outer side of the

leg falling in the direction of the dive, then the lower leg, the upper leg and the hip, and then the lateral side of the upper

part of the body. We support the ball from the back with the palm of the hand that is below and it prevents the ball to

bounce away from the hands.

Performance of other processes during a dive, i.e. ready position, covering the caught ball, rolling and turning over in

order to fence the ball off as well as getting up from the ground, completely correspond to the already shown general

diving technique.

We also use the before-mentioned dive for the ball after running out which is performed in front of the opponent. In that

case, we dive down as quickly as possible and we try that the opponent in front of us pushes the ball towards the goal.

The technique of diving in front of the feet, and after running out and diving to the feet, partly departs from the already

presented diving technique, since, at the moment of diving, we cannot precisely determine the direction of the ball. After

the dive we raise our arm and foot, prepared to shoot, parry or strike the ball, either with the hand or with the foot.

Rolling after running out makes it harder because the dive for the ball must be performed in the direction vertical to the

direction of running out. If we lie down in front of the player who is heading for the goal, we will place a quite wide

obstacle on the path of the ball moving towards a goal. A much greater obstacle is when we dive with our head to the

opponent's feet, which is dangerous for goalkeepers as well (Figure 7: Diving Technique).

Diving for Low, Semi-high and High Balls

In this part, I would like to comment on and accentuate only the catching of the ball and keeping it safe.

As the ball stops touching the ground, we should not think on how it will rebound from the ground, so we support the ball

with the palms in the same way as when saving high balls from the standing position. During the dive, both arms are

slightly bent in elbows; we stretch the palms towards the ball, in front of our face, so that palms are turned frontward.

The thumb and the index finger are almost touching each other. Inner parts of palms and fingers cushion the ball in its

advancement, together with the activity of arm joints.

We should start to cover the ball during the dive, if possible. The caught ball is pulled closer to the body with the arms,

and in the meantime, the knee of the leg that is in front of the body is quickly pulled forward. At the moment of falling to

the ground, the ball is already in the "nest", formed by the arms and the bent leg.

When saving high balls, some goalkeepers do not use the cushioning effect of the leg that is in front of the body, when

getting to the ground. With experienced and skilled goalkeepers, this does not have to be a mistake. Such goalkeepers dive

high and they cushion coming and falling on the ground in a way that they roll down on the ground first with elbows, then

with shoulders, then with the back, and later gradually with the lateral side of the body. However, we must point out that

such spectacular and showy way of saving can be used without the risk of being injured only by well trained and

versatility prepared goalkeepers.

Diving Training

As we have already mentioned, diving for the ball is the most complex and difficult element in the soccer technique.

Goalkeepers will need a lot of practice in order to learn how to dive correctly and safely.

Technique of diving for the ball is connected with great risks. A beginner goalkeeper, who is not physically and mentally

prepared in the adequate way, should not use difficult forms of saving the goal by diving (diving for the high ball). In that

respect, the coach (teacher) must pay a great attention that his student (player) does not get injured. Before we start to

train diving for the ball, we must go through many drills with the goalkeeper: agility, strength, various drills of jumping,

gymnastics that develop the skill. The drills of rolling over, rolling back and forth, flying somersault, kip at the ground,

cartwheel sideways and forward, different jumps over the horse and the Swedish box should always be included. With the

help of these drills, the student (player) will grow accustomed to diving, he will be able to orientate and control his body

in the air. He will grow accustomed to and skilled in landing on the ground. In the beginning, sudden falling to the ground

will be painful, but various dives will strengthen the students (players) and they will learn how to fall on the ground. It

would be unconscientious to teach a goalkeeper without such abilities how to dive, or to train him without making some

transition to this activity.

When the goalkeeper stops being afraid of flying through the air and falling on the ground, when he can manage being in

the air, when he can manage complex situations during rolling over and jumping, only then can we start to train diving

for the ball. First we teach rolling in the place, and then, during moving, sideways. After that, we move on to take-offs

connected with flying through the air. Conditions of diving training should be facilitated according to possibilities of the

soccer club.

First drills should be performed in thicker outfits, sweat suits, padded shorts, with shin guards and elbow guards. The

first dives for the ball should not cause unpleasant feelings because that may disturb a possible goalkeeper candidate.

Once we have ensured the required preconditions, i.e. basic physical training and conditions related to technical issues,

we approach the methodic upgrade of training diving for the ball, in the following order:

1. We place the ball to the side of the body, at such distance that it can be reached by the hand. Kneeling on both knees,

and then from the squat, we dive for the ball, pull it close and quickly get up.

2. Student (player) is kneeling on both knees, with the ball in his hands. From this position, he should stretch as much as

he can, on the surface of his upper leg, hip and trunk. At the same time, he should stretch his arms and with his hands he

should support the ball from the back and from the top.

3. The goalkeeper is in a squat and from this position he performs falling on the ground. He keeps the ball in his hands in

the same way as in the previous drill.

4. Same as under 3, but after falling down the ball must be pulled to the body. Both knees are pulled up in order to keep

the ball safe. We should get up as quick as we can.

5. Falling should be done from the basic position and after we have made a movement, body moving, we position

ourselves sideways with a few steps or with cross steps. The ball should be placed aside, at a distance of 4-6 meters.

6. We save the ball that rolls on the ground by diving aside. The ball is placed in front of us, at a distance of 2-3 meters.

7. We must catch the ball stopped 2-3 meters sideways from us after it rebounds from the ground. The dive should be

short. When falling on the ground, we must be careful that the elbow and the arm in front of us perform the role of

cushioning in the fall.

8. A teammate places the ball at the distance of around 2 meters sideways from us and drops it to the ground so that it

rebounds at no more than 40-50 cm. We stand in the ready position, then take off from the place and in a short, low dive

we catch the rebounding ball in the air. Sometimes we perform this drill in a way that we shield the ball from the

imaginary opponent. After falling down, we practice a quick getting up.

9. The goalkeeper throws the ball to himself in the direction of goalposts, in a vertical arc. When the ball first touches the

ground, he dives and catches the rebounding ball.

10. Same as under 9, except that the ball should be caught before it falls on the ground. Naturally, in this drill the ball

should be thrown a little higher in order to gain more time for the dive.

11. The goalkeeper should catch the ball thrown from the front, at different heights and sideways. First, the ball is thrown

from the distance of 8-10 meters in so that the goalkeeper can have enough time to perform the dive correctly. Later, as

he becomes better at diving, we throw the ball from a shorter distance.

12. Practicing diving for the ball that is sent to the goal with the foot.

Note: Each drill is performed first on sand, dry grass, sponge, mat, and then they dive on the real field, i.e. between the

goalposts.

Mistakes in Diving

a) Some goalkeepers do not land on the lateral side of their body, but they come to the ground with their belly. This is a

wrong and an unsafe way. That is, the ball can easily slide into the goal under the belly, and on the other hand, this is

dangerous. If he suddenly lands from a greater height on his chest or belly, a goalkeeper can get seriously injured

b) It is a mistake to cut the path of the ball in the direction of the goal. This too is dangerous. The take-off should start in

front of the goal line and, if possible, the dive should be directed under a slight angle and slanting forward. The

particularity of this is that it closes the angle of the ball better.

c) Especially when catching low balls, or those that roll on the ground, it happens that the ball is covered only from above

with both hands. As a result, the ball may slide under the arms, if the palm does not hit the ball at the required time.

However, it is a mistake if both palms support the ball only from behind. The ball can bounce, especially on the rough

field, since the goalkeeper is lying on the ground and he cannot reach the ball.

d) It is a mistake when some goalkeepers do not try to cushion the fall with arms and legs. As a result of that, the body

will fall heavily on the ground and serious injuries may occur.

e) An objection that can be made to the majority of goalkeepers is that they stay on the ground too long after a dive. After

falling on the ground, they should get up as soon as possible and send the ball into the field. Quick kicking or throwing of

the ball into the field is a great advantage from the tactical viewpoint.

Deflecting the Ball

I would like to emphasize that the best way to save the ball is to catch it with the hands. However, goalkeepers are not

always in a position to do so. Sometimes there is not enough time to assume the ready position and to prepare, sometimes

the ball flies so far away from the keeper that he cannot catch it. Sometimes it is insecure to catch the ball, if the ball is

slippery, the opponent might attack, there are mistakes in catching etc. Very often players shoot or head the ball to the

goal from a really short distance. Such balls can usually only be kicked away by a reflex action.

Deflecting Technique

Kicking the ball away is an additional element in the goalkeeper technique. It is performed with any part of the arm. The

ball can be kicked away with fingers, palms, fists, forearms, elbows. Goalkeepers most often use fingers, palms and fists.

They use their fingers to kick the ball away (tipping) if they are short in the dive, i.e. if there are no other options

Then keeping his fingers loosely bent, he turns the ball away from his direction. Goalkeepers usually use their fingers to

extend the flight of the ball that goes to the angle and in front of the crossbar.

Goalkeepers connect tipping with diving. Some goalkeepers, if the ball flies lower then the height of the dive, stretch out

the arm that is below, and if the ball is higher, then they stretch out the arm upward. This has a good practical use

because in given situations it will be easier to reach the ball with the arm extending from the shoulder that is closer to the

ball. We will extend our dive.

Deflecting the balls with fingers is only used in extreme cases. Fingers are rather weak and in case of strong shots, they

are not always capable of changing the direction of the ball. Such way of saving often leads to injuries. However, such way

of saving is highly desirable in the case of rain, when the outer surface of the ball is slippery. Therefore, catching the ball

is risky. In such circumstances, it is not recommended to catch strong balls directed under the crossbar. Such balls can be

efficiently deflected if we place both arms next to each other, keeping them slantingly backward, and with fingers pressed

together and stretching the elbows in the form of a spring, we send the balls over the crossbar. There are goalkeepers who

use one hand to throw the ball over the goalpost. When kicking balls over the goal, we must pay attention to the fact that

hands should touch the ball in front of the goalpost (crossbar) at around 25-30 centimeters, because otherwise the ball will

easily go under the crossbar.

Kicking the ball away using the open hand is more efficient. In that case, the parts of the palm and the crook of the hands

obstruct the ball. A firmer surface will be better at removing even stronger shots on goal. Goalkeepers that are more

careful form a fist with their hands and with the reduced surface of the fist, they box the ball away from the goal,

preferably in the direction of the touchline. However, this kind of boxing has its disadvantages. With the uneven surface,

it is harder to control the ball and send it to a desired direction, and the dive is shortened. In addition, when diving for the

ball, 4-5 centimeters may often be crucial.

If a surprisingly strong ball is approaching, and there is not enough time to prepare to tip or box the ball, a forearm or

parts around the elbow may be used.

Kicking the ball away is not a goalkeeper's most important tool. He should feel free to use it only if there is no other way

to catch the ball.

Practicing Deflecting

We should start to train kicking the ball away in the following way:

1. We throw or kick a high, arched ball to the goalkeeper, from the distance of around 10-12 meters. He kicks it away

over the cross bar. We practice sliding the ball over the palm, first without the opponent and then when obstructing the

opponent. Later on, the balls are directed to the side so that the keeper is forced to kick the ball away during positioning

sideways, or after it.

2. We gradually move on to the balls directed from the side. The keeper must dive and tip or box the ball away. Later in

training, we give some tasks to the keeper. He must kick the ball in a certain direction.

3. And finally, with our students (players) we practice the most difficult way of kicking the ball away.

The goalkeeper should kick away the ball sent from a short distance and with a great force, preferably in a given

direction. In this drill, two forwards should be placed in front of the goal, and they should try to send the ball rebounded

from the keeper back into the goal. In such case, the goalkeeper will try to send the ball to a place from which the

forwards will not be able to shoot on goal.

Mistakes in Deflecting

a) From a technical viewpoint, we should mention the mistake when some goalkeepers try to kick the ball parallel to the

goal line. In this way, the ball will easily get into the goal. Therefore, it is correct to position yourself 20-30 centimeters in

front of the goal.

b) It is a serious mistake when goalkeepers, after kicking the ball away in diving, stay on the ground for a long time and

assume the ready position too late.

c) Another tactical mistake in kicking the ball away that should be mentioned is when a goalkeeper kicks the ball without

paying attention to the position of the opponent. If possible, he should send the ball over the goal or in the direction of the

touchline. In such a way, he will eliminate the current situation.

Saving with the Feet

Kicking the ball away with feet is used only in extreme situations, same as with boxing and tipping. Goalkeepers i.e.

goalkeepers with good reflexes often use their feet to save low balls coming from a short distance.

However, in many situations a goalkeeper is forced to use his feet in the game outside the penalty area. This usually

happens when he must run out of the goal. If he handles the ball outside the penalty area, the referee will call a foul.

Therefore, if it is possible, the goalkeeper will kick the ball with his foot in front of the forward heading for the goal.

Naturally, if he estimates that it would not be safe to kick the ball, it is better to catch it. It is wrong to hit the attacking

opponent with the ball or to send the ball to the opposing forward.

At the moment of intervention, there is not enough time to choose the way of shooting. However, if it is possible to send

the ball in the desired direction, and for the purpose of ensuring the shot, the ball should be hit with the inner side of the

foot (Figure 8: Goalkeeper Technique of Saving with the Feet).

Handling the Ball (Distribution)

After the ball is caught, it should be sent back into the field as quickly as possible, by throwing it, kicking it or rolling it

on the ground. It is not always possible to send the ball into the field immediately after catching it. On the other hand,

from the tactical viewpoint, if our forwards are not positioned well, the opposing defense will catch the ball. It is desirable

to wait for a while before we kick or throw the ball. Winning time, avoiding opposing attacks etc, are used for the purpose

of mentioned and other tactical goals. Goalkeepers often handle the ball by hitting it on the ground.

In the end, distribution of balls is hard to define.

There is no doubt that it is used for the purposes of attacking, if, for example, the goal of handling the ball is to gain time.

However, if we keep in mind one of the basic viewpoints of modern soccer, and that is speed, and if our aim is to send the

ball back into the field as quick as possible, then ball handling does not justify the qualities of offensive technical

elements. Handling the ball, together with throw-ins, is another element in soccer that is restricted by the rules of the

soccer game. That is, the rules prescribe that the ball must be back in the field after six seconds. Goalkeepers must stick

to these rules, although majority of referees are not strict about these regulations. If the ball is handled or kept

irregularly, the opponent may be awarded an indirect kick, which may be fatal for the goalkeeper.

Technique of Handling the Ball

Handling the ball does not require some special skill. We keep the ball in front of us, holding it with both hands. One

hand, with loose and open fingers, supports the ball from above and the other from below or sideways. With the strong

movement of wrists, the above hand knocks the ball against the ground when the opposite leg takes a step forward. The

rebounded ball is again received with hands, in the same manner as before.

As we handle the ball, we must be careful to always hit the ground on the side of the body further from the opponent. In

this way our body will, to a certain level, fence it off from the opponent. As he leads the ball, the goalkeeper slightly leans

forward in order to keep the ball close to the ground and to reduce the time in which the ball is out of his possession or

control. At the moment of striking against the ground and catching the ball, the eyes are fixed upon the ball, and when the

ball is held in hands, we watch the field.

Ball Handling Training

Ball handling training should not be a problem. The movements are trivial and simple and they can be learned easily.

First they are performed in place, later during walking, and then during running in the straight direction. If a student

(player) leads the ball well and with the necessary skill, then during running we move on to performing it with turns,

leading connected with "feints" without the opponent, and then with the obstruction by the opponent.

Mistakes in Ball Handling

a) As they handle the ball, the goalkeepers often stand straight when they strike the ball against the ground, which is

wrong. In this case, it will be easier for the opponent to intervene and kick the ball away.

b) Many mistakes happen in catching the ball if one hand does not support the rebounded ball from above.

c) From the tactical viewpoint, it is wrong to strike the ball against the ground on the side that is closer to the opponent.

Goalkeeper Offensive Technique

Throwing the Ball on the Ground and Rolling It on the Ground

Throwing the ball on the ground is gaining more importance as a technical element in goalkeeping in today's modern

soccer because of quick counter-attacks. Naturally, kicking the ball far away is not accurate, but on shorter distances, it

can be used more quickly and more accurately. A great advantage of the ball rolling on the ground is that it can reach the

teammate.

Rolling Technique

We hold the ball with both hands at the height of a hip, upper leg. The hand that rolls the ball is from above, the inner

side of the forearm is behind the ball and the palm of the other hand supports it from above. Fingers are loosely

stretched.

We start rolling the ball from the place by stepping out with the leg that is opposite to the hand that throws the ball.

Holding the ball in the hand, we swing from the shoulder and behind the body, we take a run-up, swing. The elbow is

completely stretched. Then the other hand is not leaning against the ball but it is in front of the body. The upper part of

the body leans forward.

As we start to swing (forward) the arm that throws the ball, the bodyweight gradually transfers from the leg that is

behind to the leg that is in front of the body. The swing of the arms forward suddenly accelerates. When the stretched

hand gets into a vertical position, it drops the ball, and the forearm and the hand conclude and follow the ball. After that,

the elbow bends up, and the forearm goes up. In this way, we insure the accurate direction of the ball and increase its

force. Movements in rolling the ball are similar to the movements of a player who rolls the ball in a bowling alley. During

rolling, we keep are eyes on the target of the ball. We do not have to look at the ball because, through peripheral vision,

we are oriented towards its position (Figure 9: Technique of Rolling the Ball on the Ground).

Training of Rolling

1. Rolling the ball on the ground is performed from place, with the step forward, and then during the throw. Later on, we

gradually make the conditions of training more difficult.

2. We roll the ball on the ground towards a stationary target and a moving target, which moves in front of a running

player. This is done during the opponent's obstruction as well.

Mistakes in Rolling the Ball

Rolling technique is quite simple. Technical mistakes seldom happen in rolling the ball on the ground.

a) We will notice a certain technical mistake with some goalkeepers. The hand that throws the ball drops it too late. The

ball flies forward in an unnecessary small arc. It is also a mistake to drop the ball too soon, because when the ball hits the

ground it becomes bouncy. In both cases, the ball makes it harder for the player who awaits it, because he cannot use the

advantages of the rolling ball.

Throwing the Ball through the Air

Throwing the ball through the air can be efficiently used on large distances. The advantage over kicking the ball is in the

fact that the ball can be controlled more accurately and it can be returned to the game more quickly. However, it has only

one advantage over rolling and that is the fact that the ball can be sent further away. When it comes to accuracy, speed

and especially receiving the ball, rolling is much better than throwing through the air.

Throwing Technique

The technique of throwing the ball through the air can be performed in two ways. In the first way, the ball is set in motion

at the height of the head, behind the back, and in the other, it is thrown into the field with movements similar to a discus

throw.

The majority of goalkeepers use the first technique. The ball is held in the hand. We lift it up to the height of the head.

With the fingers moderately stretched, i.e. with the open hand, we support the ball from the back, and the other hand

covers it from below and from the side. When the ball is lifted near the head or behind it, the bodyweight is on the leg that

is behind.

The movement starts with the arm that throws the ball. The leg opposite to the throwing arm supports us. As hands lift

the ball backward, the opposite hand drops the ball and stays loose in front of the chest. Then the throwing arm is pushed

forward from the shoulder, and at the same time, the forearm goes forward from the elbow and closes downward.

Before we throw the ball, we try to make final corrections by involving the wrist as much as possible. This ensures the

accurate path of the ball. At the moment of throwing the ball, bodyweight transfers to the leg in front, and then, during

the final following of the ball, owing to a swing we step forward with the leg that remained behind. If we want to increase

the force and the range of the throw, at the moment of retracting we turn the hip in the direction of the throw. We keep

our eyes on the target of the ball.

The technique similar to a discus throw is used only by some goalkeepers.

I do not recommend this technique. The thrown ball cannot be controlled well because the arm, after swinging backward,

swings forward in a large arc. When performing this throw, the ball is too far from the body. The opponent can use this

situation to attack the goalkeeper at the moment when the ball is swinging back, and to obstruct him in his activity. Since

the ball is far away from the body, this initiative can be successful. (Figure 10: Technique of Throwing the Ball through

the Air).

Throwing Training

1. We are going to teach the first of the two techniques; throwing the ball behind the head. Generally, training the

technique of throwing the ball is not a difficult task. The way of throwing is natural and it can be adopted by anyone. It is

more difficult from the technical point of view. Especially when we want to show how to throw the ball to a certain place,

in an appropriate way and as quick as possible, in respect to the situation in the game.

2. Throwing is first performed from place, and later during running. If a goalkeeper is capable of throwing the ball to the

adequate distance, he should throw it into the field under more difficult conditions. For example, he should throw the ball

to a moving teammate, and later on do the same, but while being obstructed by the opponent. In the beginning, we mark

the targets where the ball should be thrown, and we gradually increase the distance.

Mistakes in Throwing the Ball

a) When throwing the ball back into the field the most common technical mistakes happen as a result of catching or

holding the ball incorrectly. At the moment of throwing, the palms and the fingers did not support the ball from the back,

but from below instead. In that case, the ball will slide forward across the lower surface of the palm, it will be given a

curved rotation backward, and it will fly to a shorter distance.

b) It is also wrong to throw the ball in a way when the throwing arm is raised behind the line of the head too much, when

we perform a swing. In that case, the ball lies on the palm relatively unprotected and it is further from the body. In the

case of a sudden attack of the opponent, a goalkeeper will be somewhat confused, drop the ball and expose it to the

danger of being kicked away from the hands with the head.

c) Some goalkeepers of poorer agility keep their elbows stretched all the way when they throw the ball. Therefore, instead

of throwing it, they hit it, which is at the expense of the accurate aiming.

Kicking the Ball

Kicking the ball with the foot back into the game should be considered as the most efficient technical element, considering

the range that can be achieved with a kick. However, as we have mentioned on several occasions, in modern soccer an

accurate pass is more important than the distance of the shot. Consequently, as we have already mentioned, majority of

goalkeepers prefer to use their hands to throw the ball back into the game or to roll it on the ground. Naturally, this does

not mean that kicking should not be used. In a given tactical situation we can make an excellent use of kicking.

Kicking Technique

A goalkeeper can kick the ball back into the field in two ways:

1. Kicking the still ball

2. Kicking the ball from the hands

1. Kicking the still ball. If a goalkeeper wants to kick a still ball into the field, then he must take into consideration all of

the inevitable requirements that soccer tactics demands in respect to the ball passing. If the distance of the kick is

relevant, in that case the laces drive is recommended. However, if our aim is to send the ball to a desired target, then the

inside kick should be used. However, the maximum range achieved with this way of kicking is 15-20 meters, not to

mention the limited height of the ball. Goalkeepers only use them to pass the ball to their teammate who is at the level of

the penalty area.

When performing kicks, the requirements for distance and accuracy of the ball should be set in the adequate ratio. We

should not disregard the viewpoints of our teammates who await the ball. A kick should be performed in a way that it

returns to the game and that a teammate can easily receive it.

Keeping these three requirements in mind, we recommend the use of the inside of the foot in kicking. In this way, the ball

can be controlled at a relatively large distance without a particular rotation during the flight (Figure 11: Technique of

Kicking a Still Ball).

2. Technique of kicking the ball from the hands. As we hold the ball, with the body we are fenced off from the nearest

opponent. We do this by holding the ball on the side opposite to the opponent. We push forward the opposite shoulder by

rotating the trunk. In order to reduce the chance for the opponent to intervene, before we kick the ball we should not

throw it too high. This is a bad habit of pompous goalkeepers. After dropping it from hands, the ball should be kicked as

soon as possible. Therefore, the most correct way to do it is to simply drop the ball from the height of the hip to the foot

that is further away from the opposing player.

When we kick the ball from hands, we should try to make it accurate, high-flying and receivable. To this end, kicks are

performed with the laces of with the outside of the foot. A kick performed in this way is most efficient in respect to the

target. Some goalkeepers perform the kick during running by dropping the ball on the ground. The advantage of this

kind of kick is that the arc is usually not too high, so it is easier to receive and head the ball. Nevertheless, there are also

huge drawbacks. Before all, rough field is unfavorable to the accuracy of the ball, and on the other hand, the opponent

has more chances to intervene. After being dropped from hands, and before it is kicked, the ball once more bounces from

the ground (Figure 12: Technique of Kicking the Ball from the Hands).

Kicking Training

With goalkeeper kicks, it is not necessary to once again speak about the methodic upgrade during training. This was done

in the presentation of kicks. Therefore, I would only like to indicate primary elements during training.

1. First, we kick a still ball as far as possible and we shoot at the targets. At the beginning, the target should be a standing

player, and later a player moving in various directions. If the goalkeeper is able to direct the ball in an appropriate way,

he should then, according to instructions, practice the kicking of the ball from hands. At the beginning, it should be

performed from place, on a shorter distance, at stationary targets. However, later, on larger distances, after two or three

steps from the run-up the goalkeeper should kick the ball to a standing and a moving teammate. If students (players)

perform this drill in an appropriate way, we move on to more difficult tasks. The goalkeeper should kick the ball

correctly and send it towards a target, after handling it, dropping it on the ground, while being obstructed by the

opponent.

Mistakes in Kicking the Ball out

Mistakes that occur here are the same ones that we have mentioned when we were describing the shots. This also refers to

those shoot-outs that a goalkeeper performs with the ball that was stopped on the ground. We did not mention mistakes

that occur during the throw-ins, but we will mention the following mistakes.

a) It is incorrect to throw the ball above the headline before kicking it out. A goalkeeper will correctly hit with the

appropriate surface of the foot those balls that fall from greater height, therefore the shot may be imprecise. It is not

advisable to throw the ball too high because while it flies in the air, the opponent can obstruct a goalkeeper and easily

knock the ball out, possibly with the head in front of a goalkeeper.

b) Goalkeepers often forget to shield the ball from the opponent. It can be a mistake with serious consequences when it

directs the opponent's attention to the possibility of attacking a goalkeeper. However, the reason for the bad kicking out is

not only forgetfulness, but also a partial ability. Goalkeeper is skilled only with one hand and one leg. With his other hand

and leg he cannot manage the ball confidently, nor can he perform a kick out.

Some of these mistakes only indicate the correct way of performing the movements.

Of course, when shooting out the ball, other mistakes can happen. However, those are tactical mistakes.

Conclusion: Generally, whatever is shown in the goalkeeper's attacking technique confirms that throwing the ball in with

the hand increasingly conquers the fields, as compared to kicking out. Kicking out with the leg is used only when shooting

out the still ball. During the game, goalkeepers will rather throw the ball from hand, high up or along the ground.

Primarily because it is more comfortable, but also because it is more accurate. Goalkeepers should try to develop their

activity and technical knowledge in every possible way, for the purpose of modern and quick game.

TECHNIQUE ELEMENTS

OF SOCCER PLAYERS

Leading the Ball

Correct leading is when the ball in the strongest run during shooting does not escape ahead of the player more than 1 - 1.5

meters. In order for that to be achieved during running, the ball must not be kicked with the leg, but easily (neatly)

nudged, pushed, smacked etc. Only in that case the ball can be at the right time quickly (swiftly) passed and shot at the

goal, or during the attack of defensive players it can at a certain moment be dribbled, stopped, further led, keeping the

body further from forward players. Therefore, the ball during leading must be under absolute control of a player.

Students (players) first learn (train) without the ball with small steps (movement technique). They must know how to put

the ball under their control when they proceed without being obstructed or when they find themselves among defensive

players. They will know that only if they lead the ball with the raised head, so that the ball is always in front of their eyes.

This is the so-called perceived watching, because at the same time they see the other players and the ball.

Students (players) can lead the ball along the ground with the instep, inner side of the foot, sole (pushing from above).

The same is when leading the ball in the air, they can do it with the raised instep, head, or upper leg. It is important that

the players learn to lead the ball with both feet, because at matches, if they are not near defensive players, they must lead

the ball with both the right and the left foot. When a forward player attacks from the side, then without fear from other

forwards he leads the ball with the other foot.

Leading the ball with the instep: this is the most frequent, the most accurate and also the easiest type of ball leading.

When the player moves (runs) directly, his foot touches the ball from above in a certain moment. Leading with the so-

called pure instep is not as safe as with outer or inner instep. The best players lead the ball exactly like that, in the quick

run, with soft contact almost "atting" the ball.

Ball Leading Training

A coach always teaches this drill first with simple and ordinary running (moving).

1. Player leads the ball with the instep in one direction, first with his right leg and then with his left leg.

2. Player leads the ball at a walking pace with his "weaker" leg.

3. Same drill as under 2, but in the easy running.

4. In the easy running with both legs in one direction.

5. Leading the ball first with the inner side of the right leg, and then with the left leg. First without defensive players, then

with them.

6. Leading the ball with the inner side of the foot in circle. First with the right and then with the left leg, and then

accelerating the pace.

7. Leading with outer and then with inner side, first only the right leg and then only the left leg.

8. As earlier, but only with inner side of the left leg and the right alternately. When he stands on his right leg, a player

leads the ball with the inner side of the left leg, and when he stands on the left leg, he leads the ball with the inner side of

the right leg.

9. Drills as those under 7 and 8 are performed by players between the pegs at the distance of 3 meters.

10. Leading the ball between the legs with the inner sides of the legs. Players with spread legs and with feet slightly turned

inward push the ball between their legs and slowly move forward. The aim of this drill is not quick running but passing

the ball between the legs as many times as possible, from the right leg to the left.

11. A player leads the ball first with the right and then with the left inner side of the leg, ahead, then after 5 - 6 meters he

makes full circle of 360 degrees, first to the left, then to the right, i.e. when he turns to the right he starts to lead with the

inner side of the left leg and vice versa, when he turns to the left, he leads with the inner side of the right leg. The aim is

that players turn around in the shortest possible period. This will be easily achieved if they make a strong jolt with the

upper part of their body, and with their free leg they make a short and quick movement with the ball.

12. The above drills are performed with the right and then with the left outer side of a foot.

13. Leading the ball with a sole, standing at one place, a player leads the ball backward. A players puts the sole on the ball

at the right angle (he holds the ball) and he hops (skips) leading the ball backward.

14. Leading the ball backward with a sole, in one direction.

15. Leading the ball ahead with the instep, then after 5 - 6 meters a player turns at 360 degrees and then leads the ball

with a sole (around himself).

16. A player slowly leads the ball lifting it with his head, knee, and instep, and gradually accelerating the pace.

Use of Different Leading Styles

A good player must be familiar with all three types of the ball leading (with the full instep, outer instep and inner instep).

We cannot strictly choose particular ways of leading the ball, nor can we apply them in such way. During one game it

regularly occurs that all three ways are used alternately. Most rarely used is the ball leading with the full instep.

What does our choice of the ball leading method depend upon? A choice of the ball leading method depends primarily

upon the position (situation) of a player, as well as on circumstances. In the straight-line ball leading there are relatively

few problems in the choice of a method for leading the ball. However, more problems appear if the ball leading is

connected with performing special tasks (for example, various turns) or if we apply other technical elements (receiving

the ball, dribbling, passing the ball).

A choice also depends on the position of the opponent player. If, for example, the opponent runs beside us, parallel with

us, then we lead the ball with the other leg, that which is further from the opponent (with our body between the ball and

the opponent), if possible with the outer or the inner side of the foot. On the other hand, if the opponent runs towards us,

we always lead the ball with the inner side of the foot. That way it will be easier for us to go around the opponent and to

trick him (dribble).

Which method of ball leading we choose to apply also depends on the running speed. In the slow ball leading it is possible

to use any method. However, in the fast leading the outer side of the foot is preferable, and the full instep is rarely used.

That is, during running the foot length axis completely falls upon the course line (coincides with it) or slightly departs

from it, i.e. enters slightly sloping forward inside. Therefore, during the quick running it is hard to perform the ball

leading with the inner foot, and without breaking the rhythm of running or the rhythm of swinging (buoyancy)

Which method of ball leading will a player use, also depends on (is affected by) the shape of his legs. Players with knock-

knees like to lead the ball with the inner side of the foot, while bow-legged players preferably lead the ball with the outer

side of the foot (Figure 13: Leading the Ball with the Instep).

Ball Leading Methodology

Alongside one or the other method of ball leading, it would be incorrect to dedicate oneself solely to one or the other way

of leading. Players study all three ways, they train them, but it is allowed to develop individuality. A coach should

intervene only when it is absolutely necessary.

If we still want to introduce some order among these three techniques, I think that the beginners should start with the ball

leading training that allows for the most lax movements. Apart from this, the outer foot is most suitable for fast ball

leading. However, if we want to achieve quick success in adopting the ball leading technique, we can start the drill with

the inner foot, and particularly if students (players) have learned to shoot with the inner foot.

Only after adopting the ball leading that is performed with the outer and the inner foot, should come a methodology of

ball leading technique with the full foot.

In the ball leading methodology, regardless of the technique, we work according to the following steps:

1. demonstrating how to keep the body and legs (with the help of medicine balls),

2. leading the ball with one leg (during walking, the same with medicine ball),

3. the same as 2, alternately with both legs,

4. the same as 3, but during the easy running,

5. the same as 3, but during the fast running,

6. leading the ball in the straight line with one leg, during the easy running with the football,

7. leading the ball in the straight line with alternating legs (left and right) during the easy running with the football,

8. leading the ball with alternating legs, during the easy running in zigzag lines,

9. leading the ball with alternating legs (easy running in the shape of number eight),

10. leading the ball, quickly running, in the straight line, and then in zigzag lines alternately,

11. leading the ball in the easy run, then during the quick run with tasks (change of the running course, speed-up,

slowdown, going around obstacles etc.).

Mistakes during the Ball Leading

Naturally, in the below mentioned text we will distinguish only between technical mistakes. Tactical irregularities will be

introduced later. The most important mistakes are:

a) A student (player) does not push the ball in front of him softly with his foot, but kicks it hard. In that case he feels the

movements harder, and the ball leading should be performed with a well inflated ball and with the softly inflated ball.

b) A student (player) touches the ball with stiff, taut foot in the joint (this way there is no pleasant feeling of pushing the

ball).

c) A player lets the ball go too far in front of him. This mistake can be corrected so that a student (player) leads the ball

towards the "opponent" who retreats in front of him, turned face to face. Therefore, he runs backward in front of the

player who leads ball. The obstructing opponent should not be closer than 2 - 3 meters to a player who is leading the ball.

It is also a good working method if in front of a player who leads the ball we draw a straight line of 10 - 15 meters. We

determine how many times a player (student) must touch the ball by the end of the line.

d) Player keeps the upper part of his body rigid, vertical, without inclining forward.

e) Rhythm of running is interrupted during the ball leading.

f) During the ball leading, a player constantly uses only one leg.

g) A player constantly pays attention to the ball.

Technique of Kicking the Ball

with the Inner Side of the Foot

In the moment of a kick, landing leg makes the right angle with the swinging leg. Body inclines towards the landing leg,

left hand is lowered forward, and the right hand is pulled backward, so that they keep balance. Swing comes from the

knee and the shin gets emphasized. At the moment of kicking, the foot is parallel to the ground. The shoulder and the

opposite hand are extended forward in the moment of kicking the ball.

Training Methodology

1. Performing movements without the ball.

2. One player (student) hands the ball to his teammate, who hits the ball with the inner side of the foot.

3. The same drill as under 2, but with changed roles.

4. Two players pass the ball to each other with the inner side of the foot.

Mistakes in Kicking the Ball

with the Inner Side of the Foot

a) The kicked ball, regardless of our will, receives strong rotation. The reason for this is incorrect position of the feet. A

foot does not fall on the ball under the correct angle at the ball's course line. In this way, the strength of a kick does not

hit the ball directly at the centre and hence the undesired rotation follows.

This mistake occurs also because a beginner does not position himself in the precise direction of the ball movement. In

this case, although he holds his foot correctly and hits the ball, it will still obtain the unwanted rotation and go sideways in

the unwanted direction.

b) Besides, players who are less familiar with the soccer ABC's often make mistakes in the moment of shooting the ball.

They frequently perform the shot incorrectly. They forget that they are standing far off sideways from the ball. Then the

leg must perform a strong movement like a "reaper". Such shot loses its force and the ball travels slower.

c) It rarely occurs that certain player hits the ball with the inner side of the foot with the big toe, i.e. with the "tip". This

surface is very small and very uncertain for performing the shots.

A mistake is often a result of some disturbance. It is possible that a player has a relatively long leg and is afraid of

injuries. If such player is in defense, a mistake is not that large, because correct passing is not of major importance for the

defense. However, with midfielders and forwards this mistake must be corrected. If a player is afraid that he will bump

his leg on the ground, then the supporting leg must be positioned further aside next to the ball. In addition, if the mistake

is in feeling the leg mobility, then we must position the ball at a small elevation.

Technique of Receiving, Technique of Shooting and Methodology

1. Technique of Receiving the Ball with the Sole

We raise the foot from the joint so that the sole closes the right angle with the ground. The angle should be large so that

the ball can stand between the leg and the ground. The ball suddenly touches the ground and the leg. Knee is a little bent,

and the entire leg is loose. As soon as the ball comes into contact with the leg and the ground, the leg should ease off in

order to receive the ball. This leg movement causes backwards ball rotation and in this way the ball remains under

control (Figure 14: Receiving the Ball with the Sole).

2. Technique of Receiving the Ball with the Inner Side of the Foot

The angle is built so that the body is kept a little sideways in relation to the arriving ball. The leg that performs the

stopping is lifted backward. The ball touches the ground and the leg, and the impact strength adjusts with the easing off

of the leg that performs the movement (Figure 15: Technique of Receiving the Ball with the Inner Side of the Foot).

3. Technique of Receiving the Ball with the Outer Side of the Foot

This technique is used only if a player, after taking over the ball, wants to lead it in the other direction and pass it on, if he

wants to put the ball immediately under strict control. For example, a defender, a central half, wants to stop the ball and

remove it from the goal. In this case the following technique applies: the leg that stops the ball is stretched out forward

and the foot is turned outward. This is the switch made from the outer part of the leg, joint and ground, since the ball

moves regularly in the same direction with the player and goes in front of the player (Figure 16: Technique of Receiving

the Ball with the Outer Side of the Foot)

Training of Receiving the Ball with the Foot

Note: Since we have previously repeatedly performed movements without the ball, let us proceed from the following steps.

1. Student (player) assumes the previously shown position and position, i.e. the leg that stops the ball is in front, and the

foot is inclined (upward). A teammate who stands opposite at the distance of about 2 - 3 meters, throws the ball so that

after the first rebound it hits the foot of the front leg. It is good and correct if at this level of work we mark the place on

the field where we want the ball to hit the ground.

2. The ball is dropped from the chest height, and after the second rebound from the ground it must be stopped with the

foot, that is, pushed over and set in front of a player. This action is performed standing in place, and the foot is inclined in

relation to the ground.

3. A player must stop the ball that was thrown in the arc or rebound from the wall. He should do that after the second

rebound, and after the first rebound from the ground. The actions should be performed after the adequate approach to

the ball.

4. The ball that moves in the arc is stopped, or put in front of a player after running towards it.

Mistakes in Receiving the Ball with the Foot

a) The most frequent mistake here is that the gravity center (weight) of the body is not placed entirely on the supporting

leg when receiving the ball. Because a student (player) stands so that he maintains the balance on both legs, and after the

contact with the ball, he transfers one part of the bodyweight on the leg that is placed in front of the body, he usually steps

on the ball. In addition, after the collision of the ball and the foot (sole), bodyweight should still remain on the supporting

leg. Bodyweight should be distributed only if a player steps out with the leg with which he has stopped the ball.

b) The angle that is closed by the foot and the ground is not appropriate. Beginners try to stop the ball that flies in a small

arc with horizontally positioned foot. They want to step on the ball and naturally the ball will often slide away below the

foot (sole).

c) We have often observed that the ball is positioned on the tip of the foot (boot), and not with the foot. It rebounds from

there and obtains the rotation (spin) which draws it backward. Such ball lifts up again, a player makes a new movement

and needs a lot of time to bring the ball closer to the ground. This mistake will occur especially if the supporting leg is too

far from the place where the ball will fall.

d) Also, beginners often make a mistake when they keep their foot joint too much rigid. Indeed, individual players, with

rigid feet and with movements which start from the hip and knee press the ball too much, so the ball will rebound far

from the receiver because of the hard and stiff ground.

Receiving the Ball with the Heel

During moving, the ball often arrives in such a way that it cannot be reached without changing its course, except with a

heel stretched backward, that is, with another outer part of the foot. Such situation occurs usually if a ball passed in the

arc is not long enough, i.e. it comes behind the back, and as we have already set forth in some direction, a sudden change

of course would present problems.

The player, capable of taking the ball with any part of the body, will be able to manage such situation. He pulls the ball,

coming from behind the back, (forward) in front of himself or raises it with the outer part of the leg stretched backward,

with the heel and outer part of the foot. Absolutely and in any case, we need to stress that because of a small and quite

uneven (rebounding) ground, receiving the ball with the heel cannot be equal to and compete with other ball receiving. If

the ball arrives in a way that it can also be taken with other parts of the body, then reception of the ball with a heel should

be avoided. Even in good and successful receiving, the ball will fall quite far away and in an arc in front of the player

receiving it, but that gives the possibility to the player of the opponent defense to react (intervene).

We can use it without any danger if the opponent player is not near.

Technique of Receiving the Ball with the Heel

When receiving the ball with a heel, the body weight is on the leg against which we are leaning and which is considerably

bent in the knee. The tip (point) of the foot is inclined and turned forward. The upper part of the body is bent forward

and turned slightly in the direction of another leg. The hand identical to the leg against which we are leaning is kept

stretched forward and loose, and another hand is slightly swung backward. Another leg from the hip is slowly twisted

outward and slightly bent in the knee, swung backward as much as requested by the height of the approaching ball. The

foot is kept in such position so that its longitudinal axis is parallel to the ground and that the ball falls on it as on a flat

board. Raising and throwing of the ball in front of oneself is performed with slight leg swings upward (up), and while

doing so, the upper part of the body leans forward even more. While performing this movement, the eyes are on the ball

(Figure 17: Technique of Receiving the Ball with the Heel).

Training of Receiving the Ball with the Heel

Because of difficulty and complexity of movements and performance, only more advanced players should learn the ball

receiving.

Training Methodology:

1. Without the ball. Touch the lower edge of the groins used in light athletics or the lower edge of the fence with the outer

edge of the leg swung backward and with the outer edge of the foot, several times in a row.

2. Drill the receiving of hanged and still balls from a standing position in one place. Drills performed in pairs. One player

performs the receiving of balls with the heel several times, while the other player stops balls. After some time, the roles

change.

3. Training in threes. One student (player) stands behind another student (player) and throws the ball up vertically two

meters high. Player passes the ball with the heel to the teammate who is standing in front, and then slightly runs forward,

performs a half turn and waits for the ball arriving towards him again.

Roles change after some time. In addition, a third student (player) stands in front of the player at about 5 meter distance.

4. Same as under point 3, but this time the teammate throws the ball behind the player at 2-3 meter distance.

5. Receiving the ball while moving in pairs. A student (player) is 2-3 meters in the back. He raises the thrown ball with the

heel in front of him during easy running. He catches it with both hands and then throws it backward by performing a left

turn, and then the teammate takes the ball over.

Mistakes in Receiving the Ball with the Heel

a) The most common mistake is when the "receiver" does not stretch the leg out sufficiently backward from the hips, but

pulls the thighs below himself. It is difficult to perform a necessary slight leg swing upward from such position in the

moment in which the leg touches the ball.

Another mistake resulting from this, is that a foot stretched backward comes too close to the body (trunk) and the

received ball usually gets either squeezed between the thighs and a leg or it hits the upper body.

b) It is also a mistake if the longitudinal axis of the foot is not parallel with the surface. Then the rebounding surface is not

in the horizontal position but leaning. Consequence of this is that the ball does not rebound in the direction of moving but

it usually rolls down the leg to the side.

Receiving the Ball with the Lower Legs

During the game, there are even such situations when there is no time to raise the leg in order to stop the ball with a foot.

The ball fallen in front of us on the ground or more often, when it is not entirely safe to stop the ball with a foot on a

slippery ground (wet grass). In other words, the ball easily slides away to the side in front of the foot.

With both lower legs (possibly with only one), the ball which is coming towards us and hits the ground in front of us, can

be safely received or stopped in less intensive preparations. It is a fact that it is more safely to stop the ball in this way on

the slippery ground with the foot (sole). However, from the point of view of stopping safety in general, this kind of

stopping could not be on the same level with stopping with the inner side of the foot. In other words, the direction of the

rebound cannot be accurately calculated because of the lower leg's structure, and especially not if a strong ball is coming.

Rebounding surfaces with other ball stopping request necessary and required loosening even when they seem impossible.

Technique of Receiving the Ball with the Lower Legs

With the entire body weight, lean against feet that are parallel at the distance of about 10 cm and 20-30 cm in front of the

place where the ball is expected to fall on the ground. Stand and take position opposite to the approaching ball.

Push the center of body gravity slightly forward so that both knees are slightly bent and heels lifted from the ground. The

upper body leans entirely slightly forward, and hands are in front of the body, that is, they maintain balance. Keep your

eyes on the ball.

If our goal is to stop the ball in front of us, then we take the standard position and let the ball fall in the corner between

the ground and the lower leg. The intensity of the ball will be reduced after falling on the ground.

If we want to do something else with the ball, which is necessary for making the ball jump in front of us, then the passive

role of the lower leg is not satisfactory. Then we need to cause and activate a force that is opposite to the force of the ball

coming towards us after the rebound from the ground. This is achieved by pressing the knees slightly forward during the

collision of the ball with lower legs. During this movement, lower legs will also be pushed forward. This little movement

will cause the ball to roll forward. After stopping the ball, that is, after the pushing, the knees are almost entirely straight.

Put the heels on the ground, and keep the hands in their natural position. Therefore, you are taking the ready position

(Figure 18: Technique of Receiving the Ball with Lower Legs).

Methodology of Receiving the Ball with the Lower Legs

The receiving methodology is performed in the following order:

1. Without the ball (5-6 times). Described technical actions are first performed in the place, slightly stretching and

tightening the knees (sliding of the knees), and then during easy walking, after a slight landing.

2. From a 3-4 meter distance, throw the ball in an arc to the student (player) who stands in front so that the ball falls in

front of the lower legs, and after the first rebound from the ground it hits the lower legs that are pushed forward in a

slanting way.

In the beginning, mark a place in the field where the ball must fall.

3. Student (player) throws the ball to himself up at the height of the head and after the second, and later after the first

rebound, he stops it but continues to push it with lower legs in front of himself.

4. From a 6-7 meter distance, stop the ball immediately with the already known technique that is, put it in front. The ball

should not be thrown in an arc turned too much.

5. Teammate throws a short ball. Student (player) needs to stop it during the forward running, first after the second and

then after the first rebound from the ground, or put it in front of himself using lower legs.

6. We throw the ball to ourselves by hitting it against the wall, slightly diagonally. The ball, rebounded from the wall,

needs to be stopped with lower legs while moving to the side (sideways), and then put in front. By moving (slightly

shifting) the leg forward, the reception of the ball needs to be performed first after the second and then after the first

rebound.

While performing this drill, we should pay attention to stand exactly opposite to the ball rebounded from the wall.

Mistakes in Receiving the Ball with the Lower Legs

a) Player (student) does not raise the heel but, by standing on the entire foot and heel, performs the movements. In this

way, leg movements are not soft, that is, the movement of the bend of the joint article is partially missing. From such

position, it is much harder to perform and possibly begin the movement after receiving the ball. That is, if the bodyweight

is on the feet and heels then the center of body gravity moves more backward because of its nature. If the heels are on the

ground, then feet (the following actually results from this) interfere with the fall of the ball on the ground as an obstacle.

If however the heel rises, then upper part of the foot (with the instep), is in relation with the ground under some angle.

Therefore, it does not interfere, but gives the ball a direct possibility to fall closer under the lower leg.

b) Foot is not parallel but tips of the football boots are turned in or out. In this case, if the knees are pushed forward, that

is after having bent the knees, lower legs will not remain parallel also. If the feet are turned out, if the tips of the football

boots (feet) are turned out, then the knees get spread. However, if the tips of the feet are turned one towards the other,

then even two heels are further one from the other. In both cases, there is a risk that the ball slips through the opening

and the stopping fails.

c) In the moment of kicking the ball, a more important pressure of the knee is forward, more than it is necessary.

Thereby, the collision (of the ball with lower legs) will be too violent, and the ball will rebound from the player.

Receiving the Ball with the Upper Leg

If the ball comes from the air at such height that it is impossible to stop it either with the foot, or with the chest, then such

a ball is easily lowered with the front surface of the upper leg. Receiving the ball with the upper leg, that is, with its

surface, represents quite a favorable condition for upper leg bones to move the fat layer of muscles, which is in advance

insured by the weakening of the intensity of the ball to an appropriate degree. However, its faults are that it is difficult to

change the course with the upper leg during the reception of the ball.

The ball can be received with the upper leg in two ways: when the ball rebounds upward from the surface of the upper leg

or when the ball is directed to the ground.

The first receiving method is used when we want to keep the ball close to the body. The second one is used when we want

to pass or lead the ball.

Technique of Receiving the Ball with the Upper Leg

We will get to know this technique. Stand exactly opposite to the approaching ball. Bodyweight is shifted to the leg against

which we are leaning and which is bent in the knee, while the other leg from the hip is raised and bent in the knee so that

the longitudinal axis of the upper and lower leg closes the angle of 50-60 degrees. The upper part of the raised leg is

placed (in the path of the ball) in the ball's path. If the ball is coming from a big height, then the surface of the upper leg

can be raised to the position even more than the horizontal. However, in the other case it is sufficient if the upper leg is

kept at the position close to the horizontal.

The purpose of receiving the ball (taking it down from the air) is the same as when receiving a full ball. The rebounding

surface of the upper leg moves down in the direction that matches the direction of the approaching ball. Therefore, the

upper leg is set, and the ball gets a "fluttering" surface (softening) in its path. If the speed of the lowering of the upper leg

is approximately even to the falling speed of the ball and loses intensity on the soft rebounding surface, the ball will fall

down slowly to the player's feet.

Lowering the ball with the upper leg is possible if using the backward swing of the leg from the hip. Leg swing is

performed until the longitudinal surface of the lower leg is not almost in the vertical position. Eyes are on the ball until

the performance of actions and movements is finished.

If the ball is coming from a really big height, then the path of the upper leg can be extended because of rising on the toes,

tip of the leg against which we lean when stretching the upper leg and in front of the ball.

If we do not want to place the ball in front, then the upper leg is not lowered as much as shown earlier. Then, it is most

often allowed for the ball to hit the front surface of the upper leg, which is in the horizontal position. The thick layer of

muscles will then reduce the intensity of the ball in an adequate way. The ball will rebound upward in a small arc from

the rebounding surface. In addition, the ball is then stopped with the inner part of the foot or, if necessary, directed to a

desired place with the head or leg while still in the air, that is, before it reaches to ground. If the ball is coming from a

small height, then it is sufficient for the student (player) to move quickly the upper leg from the hip, in this short time the

upper leg is pulled upward so that the ball does not rebound from the body (Figure 19: Technique of Receiving the Ball

with the Upper Leg).

Method of Receiving the Ball with the Upper Leg

In order to learn how to receive the ball in this way, we do not need much time. During the game, this method of receiving

is very rare. Simple and uncomplicated movements and their easy performance will be faster and give better results.

The following order is used in the training of beginners:

1. Movement technique first performed without the ball. The raised lower leg is lowered quickly to the horizontal position

on a whistle signal.

2. Student (player) throws the ball to himself slightly above the head, and later on, takes the ball with the upper leg so

that the ball rolls in front of him.

3. Teammate throws the ball in an arc from a 4-5 meter distance, which the player turned to him takes over so that it falls

from the upper leg.

4. Same as under point 3, but the student (player) receives the ball on the upper leg while running forward.

5. Taking (receiving) the ball rebounded from the wall that was thrown with the hands.

Training of receiving with the upper leg with different methods is not considered necessary because it is simple.

Mistakes in Receiving the Ball with an Upper Leg

Reception of the ball performed with the upper leg is relatively easy to learn due to its size, rebounding surface and

softness. However, just as the ball does not rebound in case of an incorrect reception, therefore possible mistakes are not

even observed.

Beginners usually make a mistake by lowering the upper leg either too quickly or too slowly. It is a bigger mistake if the

student (player) accelerates his movements, that is, acts too quickly. A frequent mistake is when the ball collides with the

upper leg in the part close to the knee. This part of the upper leg is less covered with muscles, therefore it is relatively

hard, and so the ball rebounds (bounces) more easily. The blame is on the student (player) who does not monitor the ball

entirely until the moment in which the ball hits the upper leg.

Receiving the Ball with the Belly

It is not always possible to stop a strong ball that rebounded from the ground with the inner part of the foot, sole or lower

legs. First, the ball rebounded so far that it cannot be reached with the inner foot or with lower legs, and second, because

it is necessary to have more time to prepare for the mentioned receiving. We do not always have enough time. In stopping

a sudden ball that rebounded from the ground, we can have a great use of the upper part of the body and the belly.

Especially because the soft surface of the belly softens the ball.

Technique of Receiving the Ball with the Belly

Wait till the ball coming your way reaches you "eye to eye". Take a narrow straddle stand. Both knees are slightly bent.

Body weight is on both legs. Hands are loose, on the side.

Monitor the ball. In the moment in which the ball touches the surface of the belly, step out slightly backward with the leg

that is behind. The knee is fully stretched. At the same time the upper body is thrown out forward from the flank (hip).

After having touched the surface of the belly, the ball still rolls and is unstable and kicks the body parts around the belly,

and hence with the considerably reduced intensity, falls to the ground. Reception of the ball will be perfect if we perform

a step backward, and throw the trunk forward in the moment of the contact of the ball and the belly. When performing

the step backward, a soft rebounding surface loosed backward is also created, and that will entirely reduce the intensity

of the ball.

Some players try to receive the ball rebounded from the ground with a small jump forward on one leg, i.e. they "attack"

the ball, or carry it off in front of the opponent while running forward. Both defensive and forward players use this

method of work, especially when the opponent waits for the ball too comfortably. The intensity of the ball does not have to

be reduced in longer rebounds (Figure 20: Technique of Receiving the Ball with the Belly).

Method of Receiving the Ball with the Belly

The following order is used in the training of beginners:

1. Perform movements without the ball, several times one after the other.

2. From a 8-10 meter distance, throw the ball that has to be received with the Belly in a high arc. Player (student) stands

in one place when receiving the ball.

3. One player (student) throws the ball from about 8-10 meter distance of medium intensity so that the ball falls on the

ground in front of the teammate on about 1.5 meters. Player (student) receives the ball in a standing position.

4. Same as under point 2, but the ball should be received after an easy running forward.

5. Same as under point 3, but after an easy running forward.

6. The ball is thrown in the air and when it rebounds from the ground, we attack it and carry it off while running easily or

while hopping on one leg.

Mistakes in Receiving the Ball with the Belly

Receiving the ball with the belly is mainly and usually successful exactly because of large and soft rebounding surfaces,

even if a step backward is not performed in the moment of the collision of the ball with the body (belly).

a) Incorrect and faulty receiving may happen if we do not take the full and complete "eye to eye" stand, towards the ball.

The ball can then easily slide away from the surface of the belly.

b) It is quite incorrect if the ball falls too close to the ground in front of the receiver. As a result, the ball usually, and

especially on a slippery ground, slips between the legs of the player who is waiting for the ball or hits the lower leg.

c) It happens quite often that a ball rebounded from the ground falls on the arm. Therefore, it is advisable and correct to

keep arms aside in the moment in which the ball hits (falls) the ground.

Receiving the Ball with the Chest

The ball is most often received with the chest if it is coming from a bigger height or if, for tactical reasons, it would not be

appropriate to pass it immediately on with the head. Players often use this way of receiving the ball because its certainty

percentage is sufficient enough because of the large contact area. Besides, receiving the ball with the chest does not

require a special preparation.

The ball is simply stopped on the chest, that is, it rebounds almost vertically from there. The surface of the chest is also

appropriate for such receiving of the ball, where the ball falls in front of us on the ground, in order to momentarily

perform the activity.

Technique of Receiving the Ball with the Chest

When receiving the ball with the chest, we will first get to know the technique where the ball falls to the ground, after the

collision with the chest. The player uses this receiving method if the opponent player is not too close, and has certain

intentions with the ball during the pass or even before its approaching. Receiving of the ball in this way has another

precondition, i.e. the arc must not be too vertical. If the balls are too vertical, we might not be able to pull them accurately

on the chest. If we do not guess and find a necessary approach to the ball, it will rebound far from us, but it also might not

touch the surface of the chest at all.

Take a slight straddle stand, and turn the face in the direction of the approaching ball. Knees are slightly bent. Body

weight is equally distributed on both legs. Hips are pushed slightly forward. Thorax is pushed forward (ahead) so that the

upper body, before the collision with the ball, makes an arc bent backward. Pushing of the hips forward is helped by

pushing the knees forward from the flanks. Hands balance on the side, and eyes are on the ball.

We expect the ball from this stand. In the moment in which the ball reaches the chest, the flanks get entirely stretched

because of the sudden backward pushing. The leg in front is pulled toward the back leg.

While pushing the flanks backward, we will pull in the sticking (protruding) chest at the same time. While performing

this movement, the ball hits the chest. In the moment of the collision, the upper body makes an arc slightly bent forward.

The chest is vertical and slightly turned to the ground and, after the collision with the chest, the ball continues its path

towards the ground.

If the opponent player is near when the ball is vertically falling down, or if our primary intentions obstruct the position of

the opponent player, then we are forced to receive the ball coming from the air on the chest in the standing position. The

ball is again rebounded upwards after the collision with the chest, but in a small arc. However, this receiving method is

"showy" if it is used regardless of tactical purposes and circumstances, and the ball can easily be lost. However, when the

ball rebounds from the chest, upwards, the opponent has enough time to get involved in the game, because we have

temporarily lost control over the ball. If the opponent player makes use of this moment, he will very easily strike the ball

with the head in front of us. This receiving method is considerably slow. Goal and purpose of receiving and taking the ball

is, usually and according the rule, to force it closer to the ground, no matter if it is moving on the ground or in the air.

The purpose of such receiving can be achieved only if we wait until the ball has arrived on the ground, except if we want

to send it further with the head.

However, already the waiting itself is time-consuming, and not to mention that the ball needs to be stopped and maybe

even adjusted when on the ground.

The approaching ball should be received in a full straddle. Body weight is placed equally on both legs, and knees are

slightly bent and pushed forward. The upper body forms a slight arc from the flanks. Hands bent backward balance on

the side. Eyes are on the ball until the ball reaches the chest.

Before touching the chest, we stretch from the hips and knees in a form of an elastic spring. When stretching the leg, the

chest is pushed in the direction opposite of the approaching ball. Because of the effect of the opposite force, the ball will

rebound from the chest upwards. In what arc the ball will rebound, depends on how the chest is positioned. When the ball

is coming vertically, the surface of the thorax becomes more horizontal, having in mind the rule that the angle of attack

and angle of reflection are identical (Figure 21: Technique of Receiving the Ball with the Chest).

Method of Receiving the Ball with the Chest

The technique of receiving can be performed in two ways, and between those two movements, the training will begin with

the one whose performing technique is really easier.

In training, we must be considerate of expected obstructions of students (players). In other words, heavy balls will strike

rather heavy blows to the chest bones of the player (student). Fear of pain will make his movements clumsy. As a

precaution, we will act correctly if we use lighter and softer balls (rubber balls, volleyballs) in the beginning of training

the receiving, performed with others.

The following order is used in the training of beginners:

1. Without the ball. Students (players) take a ready position freely. Initial relaxation and stretching are performed from

the upper leg, hips and knees, several times one after the other on a whistle signal (quick stretching).

2. Pushing up a medicine ball that is placed on the chest and supported by the hands with quick stretching of knees and

hips. Students (players) hold the ball pushed in the air with their hands.

3. Player receives the ball from the air with the chest, thrown by his teammate in a vertical arc, from a 2-3 meter distance.

4. Same as under point 3, but the taking of the ball is performed after running forward.

5. Receiving the ball thrown after running forward. Performed from a half turn.

Stages in training the receiving of the ball with the chest:

1. Movement is performed without the ball in the first stage to two slow beats. At the first rhythm, students (players) in

the ready position perform: pushing of the knees forward and bending of the upper body backward. In addition, at the

second rhythm, they perform: stretching of the knees and quick throwing of the trunk forward.

2. While standing in a place, receiving the ball that is lightly thrown to the player at the height of the chest, from a 5-6

meter distance.

3. Perform the receiving from a place from a bigger distance and with a ball thrown in a lower arc more intensively.

4. Same as under point 2, but after running forward, that is, during the running.

Mistakes in Receiving the Ball with the Chest

a) Lateral side of the chest is not in the straight line with the direction of the ball, but vertical to it. The ball did not

rebounce from the chest in the direction from which it came, but to the side.

b) Taking (receiving) of the ball that is coming steeply from the air will not be performed successfully by the beginner

because the direction of the chest is not positioned well. It is not usually bent backward to a necessary degree and the ball

slips from the chest.

c) Players react belatedly with the backward relaxation of the chest. This is incorrect, on one hand, because the ball does

not rebound back to the ground, and on the other, because the force that reduces the intensity of the ball is missing. The

ball will hit hard, and rebound from the player more than it is necessary.

d) Student (player) does not monitor the ball to the chest. In such cases the ball very often hits the neck or some other

part of the player's body. Note: "eye on the ball".

Receiving the Ball with the Head

The player cannot reach semi-high and especially high balls in one part in any other way but with the head.

For tactical reasons, heading of the approaching ball is not always useful.

Receiving the ball with the head is one of the most difficult methods for receiving the ball. Forehead used for receiving the

ball is quite hard. The ball bounces from a hard object. Effect of the reduction of the ball's intensity with the head is not

as nearly obvious as when performing the reception of ball with the upper leg or with the belly. A great ability to

coordinate the movements of the player, who wants to receive the ball with the head, is necessary here, regardless of

whether the ball is coming with the medium intensity. At the same time and for a short while only the relaxation of

muscles makes the ball relatively weaker and it brings the ball into our possession. In reality, a very small number of

players can take the ball well and successfully with the head.

Receiving the ball with the head is used only in case of extreme need and necessity. The ball should be headed

immediately, if it is possible. If passing of the ball is not useful, then the ball should be lowered, according to one's

abilities, by receiving it with the chest or upper legs. Only then the ball is received with the head, if all the mentioned

possibilities have been used up.

Receiving the ball with the head slows down the game. The ball bounces from the head and in that way one tenth of a

second is lost. During that time, the situation may change. The higher the rebound, the easier the opponent's attack and

the ball might get lost.

Technique of Receiving the Ball with the Head

We should try to meet the ball as soon as possible, that at a greater height. This needs to be done in order to insure the

required accompaniment for the ball in a longer way.

We await the ball that moves through the air in the straddle stand. Legs are slightly bent in the knees. When the ball

approaches, we stand on tiptoe as if we rear after the ball. The trunk of the body is almost upright and arms are balanced

on the side. The head is pushed little forward from the shoulder, and in that position we look after and watch the ball.

Before the ball comes in contact with the forehead, we suddenly push the knees forward, bend forward from the hip and

throw the head back. The more muscles we engage in the movement of the body, the more capable we are of cushioning

the strength of the ball. After colliding with forehead, the ball will rebound with diminished strength and in a slight arc it

will fall in front of us. It is often not enough to bend the knees only, push forward and bend the trunk back to a lesser

degree, in order to more efficiently reduce the strength of the ball. Relaxation of the body can be helped in a way that we

slightly step back with the leg which is behind, and that bends the knee even more. As a result of stepping backward, the

bending of the body can be more intense. That is, that leg (stepped-back) supports the trunk. In addition, the relaxation of

the body is performed in a longer time, so the decrease of the ball strength is more certain.

Some soccer players try to alleviate the clash of the ball and the head by lowering their knees and hips.

The ball can be taken with the head by jumping in the air as well. There are rarely any needs and chances for such a way

of receiving the ball. With such receiving, the ball strength cannot be reduced because of the lack of support of the

surface. Calming of the ball will be achieved to a certain extent, because after jumping up the body starts falling down,

after reaching its highest point. With the help of that, the ball will hit one surface. Therefore, it will lose its strength as a

result of a blunt collision with the head (Figure 22: Technique of Receiving the Ball with the Head).

Method of Receiving the Ball with the Head

We teach only those ways of receiving the ball that can be performed at a smaller height. Receiving the ball on a larger

height is really hard and it is used by players with a high level of ability.

Receiving the ball with the head is the hardest part in soccer technique.

METHODOLOGY

Teaching comes in turn only when students (players) are appropriately capable and prepared in terms of technique.

In methodology of receiving the ball, slightly stuffed or softly inflated balls can be of great help. Such ball will not easily

rebound from the forehead, and we can feel that moment when it is necessary to start the action of moving the top of the

body backwards and pulling the head back. Since we cannot count on instructing receiving of the ball sooner than

students (players) are on a higher level of technique development, it is not required to fragmentize the course of lessons as

with those technical elements when we teach beginners.

I recommend the following program that refers to the course of lessons:

1. We throw a stuffed or softly inflated ball in the air, to ourselves. We throw it vertically, and then try to stop it on the

forehead with already familiar movements. We must be careful not to throw the ball in the air for more than 8-10 meters.

2. Same as in 1, but with the inflated ball. Even though the weight is smaller, we should not throw the ball too high. The

highest point of the ball should not be more than 20-25 centimeters over the head.

3. A ball thrown to the player (student) face to face from the distance of 1.5 - 2 meters should be removed standing in

place. The highest point of the arc should go a little over the height of the head.

4. Same as under 3, but the teammate throws the ball higher and from a larger distance.

5. A ball thrown from the distance of 5-6 meters should be taken from the air with the head, during running.

Mistakes in Receiving the Ball with the Head

A common mistake is if a student starts to move back the trunk and the head too late. The ball then hits the hard surface

and rebounds further than we want. We should start the lowering sooner, rather than later.

The performance is incorrect if during lowering of the trunk backward only the upper part of the body takes part, that is

the muscles of hips. The student (player) leaves out the work of the ankle and knees. Thereby, the rebounding surface will

be harder than it is required (the ball will rebound further).

Header

By header we mean controlling and bouncing of the ball that is performed with the head.

The use of this technical element goes parallel with the development of modern soccer players.

As it is known, after the first half of the 19th century it was allowed to take the ball from the air (stop it) with the hand.

Receiving the ball with hands and putting it in front of legs was used for a long time. In that way, the game was often

interrupted in its course. A witty and inventive soccer player came up with the idea suggesting that a high ball could be

passed much faster if head is used instead of hands. Later on, the rules of modern soccer banned the use of hands. So the

players were forced to play with their heads.

Nowadays, passing the ball with the head represents an important part of the soccer technique. It is not an aid as it used

to be in the past, but contemporary tactics inevitably requires playing with the head.

One of the characteristics of an educated soccer player is that he keeps the ball on the ground as much as possible.

Generally speaking, if the game is on a higher level, they are better at passing the ball to each other.

In certain parts of the game, we specifically demand that the ball is raised in the air. Just think of rebounding kicks, e.g.

the long cross passes or throw-ins. The tactical aim of raising the ball is that if we cannot outplay the opponent with low

balls, then according to circumstances and situations on the field, we use the airspace in order to deceive the opponent

who stands in front of us. However, the tendency and insistence on low play do not exclude high balls. Quite the contrary,

in certain cases the use of semi-high or high passes is strictly required.

However, since both in seizing and in passing of the high balls we try to use the maximum speed, the same is the role of

headers. A good play with the head will considerably raise the degree of knowledge of a soccer player, no matter whether

he is a defender, midfielder, center half or a forward.

The successful accomplishment of an attack or its obstruction as well as the quick launch of an attack is often the results

of a well-performed header. Therefore, it is wrong not to acknowledge the importance of playing with the head, saying

that the modern soccer game consists of and is based on low passes. Using the head in passing the ball considerably

contributes to speed, one of the essential requirements of modern soccer. A good player does not wait for the ball to fall

on the ground or to land at his feet, but much sooner finds the way to send the ball exactly where he wants.

Many circumstances in soccer require the use of head. A well-aimed and strong header is often as dangerous as a shot on

the goal. Using the head, we can direct the ball coming from the air to a desired place. If there is no one to pass it to, using

the head we can stop it or change its direction. However, individual play with the head is also a great advantage in

removing dangerous situations in front of the goal.

Headers are used standing in place or going up in the air. Also during running the ball can, without any problems, be

passed on using the head. A technically skilled player does not succumb to temptation and in such situations, he is forced

to reach the ball and strike it with his head.

Selection of the Rebounding Surface

On principle, any part of the head can be used to bounce the ball and send it to a desired place. However, considering the

rationality with beginners, the training of headers should begin with the forehead. The success of teaching headers

considerably depends on a correct approach to work. If the head of a beginner soccer player in first contacts with the ball

experiences painful memories, it will be difficult to make him accustomed to headers, later on.

Bad memories related to headers, later represent obstructions in methodology. Therefore, I strictly demand that the

student (player) bounces the ball with his forehead. What justifies the use of forehead? Before all, the head is

anatomically suitable for hitting the ball. This justifies the use of forehead because its relatively flat surface enables the

appropriate direction of the ball and its further passing. The initial success will have effect on further progress. This will

enable us to monitor the approaching ball with the eyes all the way, without any problems, and that is particularly

important. The path of the ball, its movement in the air can be changed because of the imperfect roundness of the ball.

Therefore, it is necessary to "bring" the ball to the forehead. At the same time, when we are on the field, our peripheral

vision covers the larger part of the field. The performed header will be more accurate, because we can see through our

peripheral vision (the target).

For tactical purposes we will make better use of headers performed with the forehead, because we feel and see the entire

soccer field in front of us and we know which preparatory movements to chose, but during the alone header, the player

will be able to predict whether it is more useful to bounce the ball further.

Based on everything said and mentioned earlier, I would like to emphasize that in training with beginners, headers

performed only with the forehead are allowed in the beginning.

Strength of Headers and Strength of Rebounding Surface

The technique of headers somewhat changes, depending upon whether the ball is struck forward, aside, from the ground

or in the air.

No matter which technique of header performance is in question, the basic principle should be that in moving the body

the flexibility should be maximally involved. This partly contributes to securing the better route of flying for the ball, and

partly to the fact that during the header, relatively maximum strength is used. What is particularly desirable is the

intensive use of the body mass of joints. If the header is performed from a standing position, where we cannot use neither

a rush toward the ball nor a jump up, in order to insure the strength of the header, that is to intensify it, we must carry

out a stronger swing with the body.

However, with headers that are performed with the entire forehead the use of the joints of body mass is limited, because

of the ability and the anatomy of the human body. Bending the body backward, which is performed from the back, can

never be as strong as, for example, bending the trunk aside. Therefore, for the purpose of further progress in the work we

will allow students (players) to hit the ball with the lateral part of a forehead. In that case, the player does not stand

directly facing the ball, but sideways in relation to the ball. In this way, he will not be able to see widely into the field, but

by swinging the trunk sideways, he will be able to hit the ball with the higher force. Therefore, the ball will fly further.

However, in many cases in soccer, the accuracy of the stroke is only of a secondary importance.

The principal task is to send the ball as far away from the goal as possible.

Generally, a style of header which is in contrast with the one usually used is applied in those situations when we want to

break free from the opponent's pressing, and then the requirement of header accuracy is placed on the requirements of

long balls as well.

Classification of Headers

A header can be performed with the middle part of the forehead, lateral part of the forehead, and sometimes with the

back of the head, in forced, exceptional situations.

A ball can be directed forward, backward and sideways.

A header can be performed from place and during running. In both cases, we can be on the ground or in the air.

Consequently, in the following presentations, we are going to analyze and discuss headers, i.e. how and with which part of

the head to hit the ball.

Based on that, we can talk about headers that are performed with the middle and lateral part of the forehead.

Header with the Front Part of the Forehead

Header Forward from the Standing Position

The technique of a header that is performed in the standing position is relatively easiest to acquire. That is the reason

why, with beginners, we always begin the training of headers.

As we already mentioned, the stability and strength of a header are greater, with more joints, flexibility of the body and

body mass included in the movement. For this purpose, we should use legs and trunk, not to mention neck and head.

Technique of a Header Forward from the Standing Position

With headers from the standing position, we place ourselves in a straddle stand. Legs are somewhat bent in the knees, and

we lean slightly forward from the hip. Arms are loosely bent aside in elbows and closer to the body.

This body position is called the temporary position or the approach to the ball.

Anyone may ask the following question: Why do not students (players) in the ready position take a stand in the straddle

position (sideways)? Because a straddle in this case gives a better balance position (balance state). If they are placed in the

straddle lateral position, players could easily be moved forward or backward, not to mention that from the straddle stand

(transversely) they can start faster and easier if they are required to take a stand immediately after the header.

Setting the head in motion consists of two parts. From the ready position, we bend the upper part of the body backward

from the hip. The neck should also follow bending of the body backward. During the bending of the body, both knees are

bent simultaneously and pushed forward. Thereby, we will automatically fall forward.

From this position, the strike of the ball with the head is performed, that is, bouncing of the ball with the head; with a

sudden movement from the hip we push forward the upper part of the body and with a strong swing of the neck, we hit

the ball with the head. How far forward we push the upper part of the body depends on the height of the approaching

ball. If the ball is at the level of the head and if we intend to strike a strong ball, then the swing of the upper part of the

body will be enhanced with the work of legs. At the moment of striking the ball with the head, legs suddenly stretch, we

may approach with the leg that is behind, i.e. we step out. In this way, we make better use of the body mass during a

header.

If we hit a lower ball with our head, then there is no particular need for a stronger involvement of legs. In such cases,

there is enough strength in the upper part of the body to strike the ball, because it moves on the longer path.

When shooting at the goal with the head, the ball should be, if possible, directed towards the ground, that is downward. It

is harder for a goalkeeper to save such a ball. That is, from the standing position he must bend or dive. After the end of

the movement performed during a header, the upper part of the body is in "the bend forward" position. In case of a

strong swing and dash, the arms remain behind (Figure 23: Technique of a Forward Header from the Standing Position,

and Figure 23a: Technique of a Header Forward from the Standing Position).

Method of a Header Forward from the Standing Position

According to the title above, the training of body movements is performed in the following way:

1. At the beginning, we perform movements of headers without the ball with students (players) in two intervals. In the

first interval, they push the knees forward and bend the trunk backward, then follows the relaxation of knees, rising on

tiptoe and suddenly throwing the body in the forward bend.

The first part of the movement is performed easily, while the second is performed strongly and quickly and on command,

which is characteristic for this movement.

2. In the following way students (players) perform everything without the ball and they connect both intervals in one

unity. This is done on command.

3. After this, students (players) should perform entire activities, but still without the ball.

4. In the fourth way of progress in work, students (players) hit the standing ball with their heads (with already known

movements). We hang the ball at the appropriate height (on the beam, parallel bars, rope) or tie it to the crossbar at the

appropriate height. Students (players) stand in front of the ball in the ready position, and then hit the ball with their

heads, first in two intervals, and then with fluid movements. They use their hand to stop the ball, which had moved due to

a swing, in front of themselves.

The following way is much harder.

5. Students (players) are divided in pairs. Each pair gets one ball. If there are not enough balls, we place them in a circle

or a semicircle, but one player (student) is situated in the middle of the circle i.e. semicircle. Students (players) take a

stand in the ready position and with both hands throw the ball to each other, at the height of one meter above the head to

the maximum. They hit the ball that falls back with their head towards their teammate or the one that is in the middle of

the circle (semicircle). However, those in the middle should be changed from time to time. If headers are performed well,

then we will allow students (players) to throw the ball higher. This makes the drill harder, because the ball is further, i.e.

closer to the ground.

When throwing the ball in the air we should be careful to throw the ball in front of the line of the body. Only then we will

be able to direct it down to the ground with the correctly performed technique.

6. Students (players) are set in pairs in a semicircle or circle. From a short distance, with both hands, they throw the ball

in an arc (lobbed ball) to each other (the so called throw from "below") so that the one who must hit it with his head is

ready to return it, without necessary movement on the field, into the hands of his teammate in a prescribed and defined

way (the one inside the circle or semicircle doesn't hit the ball with his head, but only throws it).

When students (players) become skilled in movements that are performed during headers, then we can start with

continuous and uninterrupted training (work in groups).

Header Aside from the Standing Position

Header aside that is performed from the standing position consists of some quite complex movements. It demands great

attention and a relatively fast body movement. We will send aside the ball that comes straight at us with the surface of our

forehead. We will ensure the direction of the ball only if we send it towards the desired target with the forehead.

Therefore, we will not move it to the right or left from the forehead. Such a way of moving the ball by sliding it across the

forehead allows those already established principles to be manifested, i.e. that with the first header and directing the ball

towards the aim, as larger surface and proportionally maximum body mass is used.

If this shot is performed with a wrong technique and if the player has used all of his strength when hitting the ball with

his head, the ball will not move at the appropriate speed in the desired direction. If the strength of the forehead through

the rebounding surface does not act in the direction of the center of the ball, one part of the force will not be used in the

strength, i.e. in the speed of the ball. If we do not touch the center of the ball, that is if we do not play with the forehead,

the ball will slide away and the direction of the ball will be unstable.

Technique of a Header Aside from the Standing Position

With headers aside, lower extremities and the trunk should play an active role.

Technique of headers aside from the standing position is partly identical to body movements during headers forward.

Therefore, we use bending and movement of joints and knees, stretching and bending of the trunk backward and

thrusting it forward. The difference between these two techniques may be noticed in the bending of the trunk and in the

direction of thrusting the trunk. The ready position is exactly the same as the already shown mode of a header forward.

In the first part of the header, we bend the trunk and the neck backward, but at the same time, we twist them in the

desired direction during bending and turning. At the same time we strongly bend our legs in the knees, and turn our feet

in ankles in the desired direction and in that position await the arrival of the ball.

In the second part of body movement, header is performed with the exact same movements that are used in headers

forward.

Depending upon the direction where we want to send the ball, the position of legs is changed in the ready position. If we

want to send the ball to the right, we assume a straddle stand in the ready position, and the right leg should be behind. If

the ball is sent in the opposite direction, then the left leg should be somewhat behind.

Method of Headers Aside from the Standing Position

Methodology of work is performed in the following order:

1. At first, the movements are performed without the ball in three intervals. In the first interval, the trunk and the neck

are bent backward, and the knees bend as well. In the second interval, students (players) turn aside on the foot; while in

the third interval, the knees stretch and the trunk is suddenly thrust forward.

2. After that, we can put together the first two intervals and perform them fluidly. Then the second interval is identical to

the third.

3. In further work we use a hanging ball. A student (player) is positioned next to the hanging ball, so that it is aside from

him and near the body as high as the head.

At this stage of work, headers are at first performed in two intervals, and then as desired.

4. Students (players) are divided in groups of three and positioned in triangles. They are standing 2-3 meters away from

each other. One throws the ball from below with both hands towards a teammate, and another strikes with his head into

the hands of a teammate who stands sideways.

Position of legs should not be neglected and it particular attention should be paid when performing elements. Flaws can

be removed only if header movements are performed several times in a row in the same direction. Then we change the

position of legs that are in the straddle, and perform headers in another direction. If we do not encompass movements of

students (players) in that way, then they will switch legs and develop unusual and unnatural movements while doing

headers (during the turn of the body their legs will cross).

Naturally, the position of legs will present problems to students (players) only in the beginning. Later, when movements

are adopted, players will not even think about the position of legs, and yet they will still perform the movements correctly.

"Sliding" Header Aside

This kind of a header is rarely used. It is used to pass the ball, coming sharply from the air, as far as possible. Using the

surface of our forehead, we slide further the ball that comes from the side or directly at us in the direction of its arrival,

that is in the almost identical direction. Sliding technique differs individually.

If the ball comes directly at us, we slide it further using the surface of the forehead with a quick turn to the left or to the

right. At the moment when the ball touches the surface of the forehead, and for the purpose of cushioning the strength of

contact, we lean the upper part of the body slightly backward. This kind of sliding demands that the player has a sense of

space. This is most thoroughly taught to students (players) in professional education. It is hard to do it and it demands

beautiful movements so it is not a surprise that even among top class soccer players there are few of them who can do it

well

Ball coming from the side. This is an easier task. The ball is passed further with the forehead. We take a stand in the

straddle position sideways. We turn the trunk and the head moderately in the direction of the approaching ball. At the

moment in which the ball touches the forehead, with a quick jerk we turn the head and the trunk to the opposite

direction, and in this way the ball buzzes further, as over some slippery surface, slightly deviating from its initial course.

Such "slapping" of the ball is hard to do, because it is the most unexpected means, and especially for forwards in a

struggle in front of a goal. During matches, chances to use this "sliding shot" rarely appear.

Back Header from the Standing Position

Back header is used only in the extreme need, if there are no other ways to send the ball further. The ball can never be

passed accurately, because we cannot see behind ourselves.

This shot is most often used by forwards in the struggle for the ball with the defense, when they are not in the position to

pass the ball with their forehead straight or sideways to their teammate. Back header can be excellently applied vertically

in the direction of teammates' running. If a forward is a good jumper, he will usually strike the ball behind the back of a

defender with whom he is in the struggle for the ball. If some of the forwards bears this moment in mind and starts at the

right time, he can freely run towards the goal. Header backward is most often connected with a jump up.

There will seldom be a chance to perform a back header from the standing position. Before all, because a player will

rarely have a chance to hit the ball backward, without being obstructed by the opponent. Formerly, the defenders also

used back headers, for the purpose of returning the ball. However, if the opponent jumps in the air, then the player

standing on the ground will have a little chance for sending the ball further. This movement is the basis of the back

header technique, which is performed from the jump up.

Technique of a Back Header from the Standing Position

Technique of a header that sends the ball backward is quite simple. In the ready position, we lower our knees. At the

same time, we bend the trunk and the neck backward. We quickly and intensively stretch joints and knees, and at the

same time with the upper part of the forehead, we touch and rebound the ball, or let it slide. The swing of the trunk and

the head is intensified not only by stretching of the legs, but also by a strong and fast swing of the upper leg forward.

Whether we bounce the ball with the forehead or let it slide, depends on the extent to which the trunk and the neck are

bent back.

Method of a Back Header from the Standing Position

Method of a back header performed from the standing position consists of the following stages.

1. The shot is performed in two intervals without the ball. In the first interval, knees and ankles are deeply bent in the

ready position and the body is stretched backward. In addition, in the second interval, legs are quickly stretched and the

upper leg is thrust forward.

2. After that, students (players) perform continuous movements with their heads, but still without the ball.

3. Student (player) throws the ball to himself with both hands, 2.5 - 3 meters in the air and strikes it with his head to a

teammate standing behind him.

4. We train groups of three. Two wingers stand facing each other and with their both hands, they throw the ball from

below to a player in the middle, and he hits it with his head to a teammate behind him, in the way as it was already

described. After every header, he turns to the left.

If we do not have enough balls, we place more players in the middle and they interchangeably strike the ball without

turning to the left.

Header during Movement

Technique of a header performed during movement is basically identical to the technique of a header from the standing

position, but it is harder when the header must be performed during movement or immediately after the movement has

finished.

During running or immediately after it, there is not enough time to perform a header as fluidly as in the standing

position, when we peacefully await the arrival of the ball. When we move we do not have the chance nor we have the time

to assume a ready position, which is so required and important in the standing position.

It will be enough if immediately after the end of the movement we hit the ball with the head. We will than be given a

current chance, when we will be able to perform the required approach to the ball, and then easily perform trained and

adopted movements. So we can perform a header if, using our movements, we block the opponent, exclude him from the

struggle for the ball, and the header will be performed without any particular disturbing circumstances.

This technique of moving is identical to the technique of headers from the standing position, no matter whether the ball is

directed aside or backward. This can be a problem for a beginner, a higher-level task, because with this technique he is

forced to connect the header with moving, that is immediately after the end of moving he must perform a header after a

short preparation. Therefore, he will not be able to pay full attention to the ball and to the correct technique of

performance.

A student (player) will be in a more difficult situation if a header must be performed while he moves on the ground. Then

he does not have the time to approach the ball and receive it in this position. In that case, he must strike the ball with his

head at the moment when the ball and the moving player meet.

The situation becomes more complicated if there is an opponent who interferes during a header. Because of the lack of

ready position, because joints and the upper part of the body are eliminated from the movement, undoubtedly the header

would be weaker and less stable, if there would be no help from the inertia force of the run-up. However, the inertia of the

run-up acquired in this way not only compensates for the work of joints and the upper part of the body, but it often

surpasses it.

Technique of a Header during Movement

Technique of a header performed while running, as we have demonstrated in practice, somewhat deviates from the

technique of a header from the standing position, because there is no ready position. The bending of joints, knees and hips

is not nearly as effective, and thrusting the upper part of the body forward is possible only to a certain degree. However,

despite different techniques, we still do not depart from the basic principles of headers. We hit the ball with the forehead

and its surface is responsible for headers. Therefore, if during movement on the ground we hit the ball aside, we turn the

surface of the forehead in the direction where we want to send the ball.

Method of a Header during Movement

When teaching headers after the end of running, we first throw a short but high ball (3-4 m), with both hands from below

to a student (player). The ball thrown in this way will land on the expected place of the fall. Student (player) has enough

time to assume the ready position, and then perform the described movements that are performed with headers from the

standing position.

When teaching headers performed during moving on the ground, we throw the ball to beginners so that a student (player)

meets the flying ball precisely at that moment when the ball is as high as his head. First, the student (player) should send

the ball with his head to the hands of his teammate during walking, and then during easy and later during faster running.

The course of teaching both techniques is done in the following way.

1. At the beginning, players practice headers forward in pairs.

2. Then follow headers aside, performed in groups of three.

The course of the drill is as follows:

- Player number 3 throws a short ball vertically to player number 1 who stands oppositely facing him.

- Player number 1 runs in and heads the ball to the right, to player number 2.

- Player number 2 throws the ball to teammate number 3 who heads the ball to player number 1 etc.

After some time, the players hit the ball in another direction.

3. And in the end come backward headers. Performed in groups of three. Player (student) who hits the ball with his head

stands between two winger teammates who are changed from time to time. Of course, headers forward are to be

performed by the player in the middle, as he moves forward. After every header he performs a half turn to the left. Arcs

of thrown balls in certain drills depend upon (i.e. they are changed) whether headers are performed during the movement

or after its end.

Header in the Air

During the game, it often happens that the ball flies higher than the head or that more players struggle for the ball

coming from the air. In that case, the player who reaches the ball at a higher point will have the advantage.

Naturally, with headers performed in the air, tall players have the advantage, but the practice has proved that height

itself is not everything.

With headers performed in the air, apart from height, flexibility and the sense of rhythm play a great role. These two

things are of the greatest importance. If they are connected with the tall stature, then we can speak about the harmonious

union of abilities, and if they are united with the necessary courage, then they ensure absolute power during the time

spent in the air.

Few soccer players posses all of those three abilities. That is why there are not many players who can confidently master

the ball that moves through the air. There is not much we can do to increase the height, but the sense of rhythm and

flexibility can be considerably improved through continuous practice.

Jump up can be performed in two ways: from the place and with the run-up. These two types of jumps are not

alternating, but they are most often determined by particular situations. If, for example, two players stand closely one

behind another, the one who is behind can jump only from the place. However, if there is some space between the players,

it will be better if a high ball is hit from the run-up. Clearly, a jump up from the run-up will give better results. That is,

the elevation of the jump will be helped by the inertia of the run-up.

Jump up from the place is performed using both feet, while a jump up with a run-up is usually performed after a take-off

on one foot.

A header connected with a jump up, is a quite difficult task. The one who performs a header must have complex

movement coordination. Only well-trained soccer players can learn this style of headers.

Performing of headers is made difficult by the fact that after a jump up we temporarily lose the supporting surface. The

strength of muscles can be used only to a limited extent. Lost strength is in a way compensated by the inertia of the jump.

At which point during a jump should the head hit the ball is a disputable issue. In the phase of going up (taking off), at the

highest point or in the phase of going down (landing). Generally, we strike the ball at the moment of going up in the jump

if the aim is the length of a header, and all other issues (for example accuracy) are pushed into the background. This

manner of a header performed during a jump up is relatively the easiest one. Defenders use it when they want to send the

ball as far as possible, and if they are not obstructed by the opposing forwards. A header performed at the highest point

demands more beautiful movements. The ball is most often directed from the highest point towards the ground, that is,

from the highest landing point, and especially if opponents interfere during the header.

A header, performed at the moment of going down, cannot be compared to the first two. In such case, we send a soft ball

to the teammate.

Are there differences in header technique depending upon the kind of movement we perform during the jump up? In the

phase of going up, in the phase of going down or when we are at the highest point?

Yes, there are. When we are at the highest point of going up, the body stands motionless in the air for one moment. At

that point the player has more control over his body: in such case he can make most use of the mass of the upper part of

his body during the header. At the moment of going up, the body is in opposition to gravity; it performs harmonious

movements, and based on experience, during such moving, the use of the upper part of the body will be less successful.

Therefore, as it results from this, it is most useful to perform the header when the body is at the highest point of the jump,

and from the point of use, with certain body muscles. We will now analyze the technique of certain styles of headers

performed from the jump up.

Header from the Jump up with Both Feet

We use this kind of a header if we are in contact with the opponent, or if the ball approaches a little over the height of our

head, and we do not have the time to run up to it.

Technique of a Header from the Jump up with Both Feet

If the opponent is really close to us, we start the movement of the body with legs slightly straddled (15-20 cm). Feet are

parallel to each other, or the tips of boots are turned one to another.

In the stretched position, we slightly bend both knees and at the same time strongly swing the arms. We lean the upper

part of the body slightly forward. From this position we jump up. Quickly and strongly swinging the arms forward and

upward, we strongly stretch from the knees and jump up from the ground. Depending upon the circumstances and the

objective, we head the ball during the flight in the phase of taking off, in the phase of landing or when we are at the

highest point. At the highest point in the air, we bend the upper part of the body and the head slightly backward, and

then with a quick, short, forward jerk of the head we strike the ball. As a result of the swing of the upper part of the body,

legs will make a swing forward and arms will make a swing backward. During the phase of going up in the jump, we can

to some extent use the help of the upper part of the body. We let the head go slightly backwards, in order to hit the ball

with the forehead. In the phase of going down during the jump up, we cannot make enough use of the upper part of the

body. The body is passive; we can only use the forward swing of the neck, for the purpose of increasing the strength of the

header.

We keep our eyes on the ball from the moment of setting the body in motion, until the header is completed.

Both legs are involved in landing on the ground. At the moment of touching the ground, we strongly bend the knees.

We decrease the strength of the fall. By going back to the ground, as well as after it, we must keep our balance, because

only in that way can we immediately get back into the game. In keeping the balance, it is of help to spread the legs when

going down a little more than when going up. Balancing the arms helps to safely land on the ground.

The header that is performed from the jump up with both legs can be performed by sending the ball forward, to the side

and backward. Technique of the take-off is identical in each case.

Header aside. Immediately after a take-off from the ground, we rotate the upper part of the body in the desired direction

so that the direction of the header and the upper part of the body, that is the surface of the forehead, are mutually vertical

(perpendicular).

At the same time, we push back the upper part of the body, in order to ensure the necessary impact of the shot at the

moment of the header. Back header. The strength of this shot can only be slightly intensified through a sudden swing of

the head backward, which is done from the neck. (Figure 24: Technique of a Header from a Jump Up with Both Feet and

Figure 24a: Technique of a Header from a Jump up with Both Feet).

Method of a Header from a Jump up with Both Feet

Training of headers from the jump up with both feet is performed in the following order.

1. Jump up with both feet and head movements without the ball. Particular attention should be paid to movements during

heading the ball aside and to the rotation of the body.

2. After a jump up with both feet, we use the head to strike a hanging ball. The ball hangs 15-20 cm above the head. The

player stands 20-30 cm behind the ball.

3. Drills of headers forward should be done in pairs. The teammate throws the ball vertically, from a distance of 2-3 m,

with both hands, from below.

4. Drills to be performed in groups of three, and the header is directed backward.

5. Student (player) who is positioned in the middle heads the ball thrown to him by his two teammates standing on the

sides.

6. After a header, the player in the middle turns to the left.

7. It is performed in groups of three, and headers are directed to the right and to the left.

Diving Header

Header from the jump up with both feet. It is sometimes used when the ball flies in front of the student (player) at the

height of his head or slightly lower. If there are no other ways to reach the ball, after a take-off with both feet (sometimes

with one foot) dives forward and strikes the ball with his head.

Diving Header Technique

The technique of setting the body in motion does not differ much from the techniques described earlier. Swinging with

arms is slightly more moderate and mainly directed forward. By swinging the arms as well as by stretching the joints and

knees, the body falls forward (dives). The center of body gravity is entirely on feet.

The dive of the body is directed diagonally forward. As for touching the ground, it is not touched by feet, but it is first

softly touched by hands and feet, and then by the body. So, the sudden fall of the body is cushioned by hands and feet.

Diving Header Method

This kind of a header is shown in training sessions and it is usually performed by the most courageous players. We must

be careful in training and method. First we practice the dive, horizontal dive on the soft ground (sand or a mat). Once

those movements are adopted, students (players) strike a hanging ball that hangs as high as their upper legs, from the

place and they jump up with both feet. Player should position himself in front of the hanging ball at the distance of

around 90-120 cm. Later we gradually increase the distance. In the first drill, it is correct to hang the ball above the sand

so that the student (player) starts the movement from the squat.

After that, (players) practice headers in the following way. A player throws the ball with both hands, from below, in a

semi-high arc, and his teammate heads the ball back to him. The distance between the ball and the one who heads it, as

well as the height of the throw, is gradually increased.

Header from a Take-off on one Foot after a Run-up

Players use headers from take-offs on one foot if they want to reach the ball that is much higher than their heads, and if

there are no opposing players near them before they rush for the ball.

Before a take-off up with both feet, a run-up should be performed. Because of the inertia of the run-up, they will jump

much higher than when they jump from the place with both feet. Therefore, this kind of a header is more efficient and its

effect is increased, and the acquired swing increases the strength of the head.

However, the use of this header is limited. It can be used only if a player is ready to take a run-up, and has enough room

to take it, at least 1-2 m. If this is not possible, the player will head the ball from the jump up. The ball has a much smaller

effect if the header is performed from place, with both feet.

Header performed from the jump up on one foot is one of the most complex and difficult movements of soccer players.

Height is not so important for this header, if the student (player) possesses the required sense of rhythm and flexibility.

Technique of a Header from a Take-off on one Foot after a Run-up

Movements used in a header from a take-off on one foot consist of:

a) Run-up

b) Getting close to the ground

c) Take-off

d) Header (work in the air)

e) Landing on the ground

a) Run-up: Distance of 5-6 meters. The run-up is gradual. The rhythm of moving should not be disturbed. Therefore,

during running the player should not change pace. The last step in running should be on the takeoff foot.

b) Getting close to the ground: Just before the takeoff leg steps forward, a phase begins which consists of lowering the

center of body gravity that is of lifting up the takeoff leg. The onlooker can see only that the knee of the takeoff leg is bent

slightly deeper. Center of body gravity is transferred from the heel to the entire foot.

c) Take-off: Take-off follows after the body is lowered. The takeoff leg, bent in joints and in the knee, forcefully stretches

out. It is as if the feet push the body up from the ground. The other leg, bent in the knee, flies up and helps to lift the body.

The arm opposite to the swinging leg also strongly swings forward in the same way. The upper part of the body forms an

arc, slightly bent backward.

d) Header (work in the air): When the body is at the highest point in the air, we bend the upper part of the body entirely

backward, and it looks as if it awaits the arrival of the ball. As soon as the ball is as high as the forehead, we quickly swing

the upper part of the body from the hips forward, and the head, from the neck, strongly hits the ball. However, as a result

of the fast activity of the upper part of the body, legs come next to each other and swing forward, and arms swing

backward.

e) Landing on the ground: It represents the concluding moment of a header. It is similar to landing on both feet, which

happens after the header from the take-off with both feet. We rarely land on one takeoff foot. Knees are bent, and arms

are used to keep the balance.

This kind of a header has the best effect if it is performed at the highest point of the jump up. The technique of a header

performed in the phase of going up and coming down differs from the already known way only in the absence of the

active help of the upper part of the body, and it is compensated by the swing of the body in the take-off phase. With a

header in the phase of going down, its strength is not crucial.

Method of a Header from a Jump up on one Foot

Method of a header performed from a jump up on one foot is performed in the following way.

1. Movements should be performed freely, after a run-up of 2-3 feet, without the ball. Depending upon which movement is

covered (forward, aside, and backward), students (players) strike the imaginary ball.

2. Same as under 1, but in front of the players, at around 3-4 meters, we draw the line from which they must perform a

jump up from the run-up. In trying to obtain a true vertical flight, it is correct to mark the place of landing as well.

3. We hang the ball between the take-off place and the landing place, at 20-40 cm above players' heads. Students (players)

calmly strike the ball, after a run-up of 3-4 steps and a take-off.

4. Same as under 3, but the players head the ball to the side and backward.

5. Drills in pairs. One student (player) throws a curved ball to his teammate who stands in front of him, at the distance of

3-4 meters. The teammate jumps up and heads the ball back to the first player.

6. Back header in groups of three. One student (player) stands in the middle and one of the players on the side throws the

ball at him. The one in the middle runs towards the ball, jumps up on one foot and heads the ball backwards to the third

teammate, and then he makes a half turn and strikes the ball thrown at him, but now in the opposite direction.

7. Header aside in groups of three. Three students (players) are positioned to form a triangle. After a run-up and a jump

up, one student (player) heads the ball aside to one of his teammates.

8. Player strikes a hanging ball that swings, from the jump up on one foot, and as he wants: forward, backward or aside.

Note: All of the headers described are performed using the entire forehead.

Header with the Side of the Forehead

In soccer, this technique of a header is often called "the releasing header". Undoubtedly, this kind of a header sends the

ball furthest away.

This header gives the opportunity to use the described technique often to send the ball out of bounds that is to release the

pressure of the opponent.

In some situations, this kind of a header is suitable to, for example, shoot on goal, just as it can be used to send the ball out

of bounds and release the pressure, as well as the header performed with the entire forehead.

Header from Place during Moving

In the introduction, I mentioned that some players use headers in the ways that often differ from the familiar technique.

In certain situations they do not hit the ball with the front of the forehead, but with the right or the left side of the

forehead, and at the same time, they position themselves sideways in respect to the direction of the header.

With this header we usually fulfill the first and the most important task: to free the goal. Therefore, this technique is not

used so much by forwards and midfielders as by the narrower defense.

Why is it that with these movements we can make the ball fly as far as it can? Because with these movements, a header is

helped by the flexibility of the body.

So, most of the body mass can be involved in the header. During a header, the trunk bends sideways, so here it can be

bent to a larger extent.

Technique of a Header from Place during Moving

We take a stand with feet 60-70 cm apart from each other. We turn the lateral side of the body towards the approaching

ball. We slightly bend the knee that is opposite to the direction of the ball, and at the same time, we strongly bend the

neck in the direction of the bent leg. Arms hang loosely, keeping the balance.

With a sudden movement, we set the knee straight, at the same time, we move the leg, and the upper part of the body and

the neck hit the approaching ball. The lateral side of the frontal bone, because of its great speed, strongly and quickly

strikes the ball, intensified by the strength and the mass of the body.

After the header, the trunk does not remain in the upright position, but it follows the moving of the ball in the opposite

direction.

During moving on the ground, the technique of a header does not change. After running at the so-called "eagle" pace, we

jump to the starting position, assume a straddle stand, bend the body and the neck sideways. Moving from this position is

the same as in the technique described earlier.

It may be difficult to decide which side of the frontal bone to choose when trying to hit the approaching ball. This choice

may differ from person to person. However, it is usually decided according to the direction from which the ball

approaches and the direction where we want to send the ball. If it is coming straight at us, we will use the left or the right

lateral side of the forehead. But if the ball comes from the left side, i.e. from the direction of the opposing right wing, and

we want to send it to the field, then under any circumstances the ball must be hit with the right side of the forehead,

because otherwise it will be hard to observe (monitor) the approaching ball. Naturally, if the ball flies in a curve (arc)

from the opposite side towards the midfield, then the left side of the forehead must be used in a header.

Therefore, the range of a header is changeable and it depends on many circumstances.

Method of a Header from Place during Moving

We can begin to teach the technique of this header only if students (players) have completely adopted the technique of

headers with the entire forehead.

Then we can start with the training of headers which is particularly suitable for defenders, i.e. such headers can be of a

great use in sending the ball out of bounds or in releasing the opponent's pressure, and it doesn't' t require as much time

as training other techniques.

Methodology is performed in the following way.

1. Movements of a header, without the ball, in two intervals. In the first interval, the knees and the trunk are bent in the

same direction. In the second interval knees and trunk are stretched, followed by a jerk in the opposite direction. After

several drills, both parts are repeated continuously.

2. Hitting a still, hanging ball. The ball should be at the height of a player's chin.

3. Player throws the ball at himself high in the air, and with one lateral side heads the ball to his teammate who is in front

of him.

4. A player stands in front and throws the ball with both hands to the side. Student (player) standing sideways to the

thrower receives the ball and heads it back to the hands of his teammate.

5. A teammate throws a short ball and a student (player) returns it using the adopted header technique, after running a

couple of steps forward.

6. Same as under 5, but the ball should be hit first with the right and then with the left side of the forehead.

Header from the Jump up

If it is not possible to take a longer run-up, because the opponent is very close, or if the arc of the ball is very steep, a

header should be performed with the lateral side of the forehead, from the place, after jumping in the air with both feet.

Technique of a Header from the Jump up

In such circumstances, before jumping up, we turn the trunk in the direction of the header.

Therefore, depending upon which side of the forehead hits the ball, to the left or to the right, the shoulder must be in the

direction of the approaching ball. We stand with legs slightly apart and wait for the ball to come. Minimized takeoff is

precluded by bending both knees. From this position, we begin the process of jumping up. We quickly stretch the knees,

and arms swing up in order to help going up. During rising up in the air, the trunk bends sideways, and at the highest

point we hit the ball with the strong swing of the head and the trunk. We land with legs a little more apart, in order to

keep the balance. Arms are spread, also to keep the balance.

Method of a Header from the Jump up

Method of a header from the jump up is performed in the following order.

1. Practicing movements without the ball (with the left and the right side).

2. Repeating the movements, while hitting the still, hanging ball. The ball should be 15-20 cm above the head.

3. Student (player) repeats the movements by throwing the ball in the air to himself. He must head it to his teammate who

stands in front of him at the distance of 4-5 meters.

4. Striking the hanging ball that swings left and right.

5. Heading the thrown ball to the teammate (distance of 4 _ 5 meters).

Back Header

So far, you have learned about the technique of movements that are performed in headers forward from the jump. With

this kind of a header aside, this is performed from the jump up with one foot. The important difference in the technique

of moving in respect to the technique mentioned before is shown only if a header is directed to the side. After taking off

with one foot, while going up in the air we bend the trunk from the hips backward and turn it in the desired direction.

The further part of the technique mainly corresponds to the technique of a header forward.

Back Header Technique

After jumping up on one foot, we head the ball backward. With such headers we should try that the forehead reaches the

ball at the highest point in the air.

Technique of a back header from the jump up on one foot differs from the technique of a header forward only in the

work in the air (literally - header in the air). The difference is only in the fact that after a jump up, the body bends a little

and retains that position during the header.

The ball is given more force by a quick start and a short push backward, of the upper part of the body in the waist, and of

the head and the neck.

Passing and Shots

Many say that if a player cannot pass the ball, he cannot play at all. This is unquestionable in any case, if we cannot pass

the ball accurately where we want to, we cannot play soccer at a high level.

We can pass the ball with the foot.

Passes on the Ground

The basic requirement is to keep the ball on the ground. The principles are as follows:

a) The force of the shot should act on the ball in the direction of the centerline. The lower the point of the shot, the higher

the chance for the ball to go up in the air.

b) The shot is accurately performed if the swing of the kicking leg is at the lowest point of the shot. This can be achieved

if, during the shot, the knee is positioned above the ball. If a player is further away from the ball, there is more chance for

the swing of the leg to be aimed up. On the contrary, if the upper part of the body is too much above the ball, then the

swing of the leg will be directed down too much, and as a result of that the ball will be pressed down and it will rebound

from the ground.

c) For the purpose of the accuracy of the ball's path, the leg should follow the ball towards the goal, as far as possible.

d) The force of the shot is determined by the speed at which the leg kicks the ball. The leg functions as a lever. The longer

the lever, the stronger the shot. However, if we want to kick the ball and keep it on the ground, it is hard to perform such

a shot with another swing, which is needed to keep the ball on the ground. In such cases, we use another lever. We swing

forward the lower leg, explosively from the knee. This can be achieved if the knee is placed above the ball, or if it is as

high as the ball, when the shot is performed from the turn, and that is one of the strongest shots from the variants of shots

(Figure 25: Technique of Passing the Ball on the Ground).

Mistakes in Passing

a) The ball will hit in front of the centerline and it will go up in the air.

b) The ball is not passed strongly enough.

c) The player is not in a good state of balance, and in such position he cannot apply the technique well.

d) The swing of the leg cannot be fully manifested, because one part of the force goes to the ball.

There is also a shot technique that seems to be in contradiction with the general rules. Such is the low "spin" shot

performed with the outer part of the foot. In this case, the player stands sideways in respect to the direction of passing the

ball. In this shot, the knee is the guiding and the leading principle of shooting, followed by the ankle and other parts of the

foot, which stretch one after another. When using this technique of a shot, it is hard to place the knee above the ball. This

is why it is very important for the leg to be in the correct position in respect to the kicking point of the ball. When

performing this shot, most players pass the "spin" ball, because the leg moves upward. The leg follows the ball after the

shot. The final following of the ball is aimed upward, i.e. the leg moves up. It is a similar situation when we use the shot

performed with the tip of the boot. During this shot, the most important factor is the accuracy during the contact of the

leg and the ball.

Passing the Ball through the Air (Curved Balls)

Passes through the air in the form of arcs are used when we want to pass the ball above one or more opponents, at a

shorter distance in such a form that the ball comes back, or intensively struck ball at a greater distance. Long accurate

passes are very important in the offensive play. All players can use them, even goalkeepers. They are most efficient when

a team suddenly goes from short passes to long and accurate passes. Their accuracy is important. If a pass is longer, it is

harder for the ball to reach the target, and in such circumstances, the opponent has more time to intervene. The team

whose play is based on long passes, must have players who posses a high level of competence in the performance of such

shots and the technique of receiving the ball.

The inner part of the foot is most often used for long, curved passes.

Basic principles of the technique of performing long, curved passes are:

1. The intensity of the kick should act upward through the lower half of the ball, in the direction where we want to send

the ball.

2. We should make an intensive swing with the kicking leg. This can be achieved if we rush to the ball under an angle.

When rushing for the ball, the last step of the supporting leg should be long. Longer step removes legs one from another

and enables the kicking force to take a better swing. Rush after the ball enables us to perform a strong turn in the hip.

3. The supporting leg is placed sideways, behind the ball. The body starts to move backward when the kicking leg starts to

swing. The position of the supporting leg enables the kicking leg to stretch and kick the ball, and the movement is directed

upward. The achieved range of the ball sent is the result of the intensity of the leg swing and the force in the direction of

moving or the movement of the body. Factors that help performing long passes are:

a) Agile motion and moving of the hip.

b) Strong swing forward of the upper leg.

c) Intensive stretching of the knees just before the shot.

d) The leg should follow the ball all the way in the direction where we want to send the ball. Bending the trunk backward

enables the full swing of the leg in front of the body. If full swing is not performed in the direction of the target, then the

player will often "drag" the ball away. In such case, if a left-legged player performed the shot, the ball will go to the right

from the player. That is, the ball passed from the right-legged player goes in the opposite direction. It is very important

that the player correctly kick the ball when he performs the shot.

e) Just before the shot is performed, we must determine the position of our player, the speed at which he moves, the

direction of his moving, the distance and the position of the opposing player. We fix our eyes upon the ball when

performing the shot (Figure 26: Technique of Passing Curved Balls).

Basic Principles of Passing Long and Curved Balls

1. The point in which the foot touches the ball should be below the central line of the ball. The lower we hit the ball, the

higher it will fly, and the distance will be shorter.

2. For this shot we use the inner part of the foot, we stretch the leg downwards, i.e. we place the toes down.

3. The supporting leg should be behind us, sideways.

4. We rush after a ball under an angle.

5. The last step of the standing leg should be stretched.

6. The swing of the leg should be the longest and it should start with the rotation of the hip.

7. Just before the shot, we firmly stretch the knee of the kicking leg.

8. We strike the surface of the ball and the leg should follow the ball.

Mistakes in Passing Curved Balls

The mistakes are the following:

a) If the direction of the force which acts upon the ball is not correct, then the kicking leg will take away the ball, i.e., the

ball will be dragged away to the side. If the reason to this is the fact that the run-up is not performed under an adequate

angle, we can correct it by putting the stress on the angle of the run-up during drills. A mistake can happen if a player

assumes the position for the shot too early, that is, if he starts to rotate his hip too early and the entire width of the body

becomes visible before the movement to strike the ball is ended. It is a mistake is if a player does not control the direction

of his leg and if he starts to swing it in front of his body too soon.

b) If the ball does not fly high enough, it means that the player has hit it too high, because he lifted his head during

shooting. Raising of the head will be caused by straightening the body, to a smaller extent, and at the same time lifting the

shooting the leg.

c) If the height and the direction of the ball are good, but the force is not adequate, it means that the player has merely

brushed ball, instead of giving it a longer lasting force. Sometimes a player falls on the ground after touching the ball, and

the reason to this is too long approach to the ball or the supporting leg was too far from the ball.

d) If the ball is high enough, but it does not go far enough, the position of the leg is to low in respect to the ball during the

shot, and in this way the force of the shot is lost. If a player senses that his long shots often go to the side, he can correct it

by not bending his body too much during training.

Ball Rotating Backwards

By applying this shooting technique we can achieve that the ball flies vertically upward, but at a short distance. When the

ball falls to the ground, it does not bounce forward, but upward. This kick can be performed in two ways.

1. A player uses his whole foot so that the collision of the foot and the ball happens under the ball. The tip of the shooting

leg must swing between the ball and the ground. The tip of a boot must be positioned under the ball. The shin, the foot is

not fully strained downwards, but it holds firmly. We try to achieve the kick on the lowest surface of the ball. The ball will

rise under the impact of the given strength force and it will move backward during the flight. When it falls to the ground

because of rotation it bounces upward, or even backward. By fully and quickly extending the knee of the shooting leg,

with the quick forward swing of the shin we can achieve the adequate speed of the ball. Direction of rushing at the ball

corresponds with the direction of passing the ball. The leg support rests next to the ball, and the swing of the shooting leg

is very weak. Correct contact with the ball is very important. The head is leaned downward during this entire movement.

This type of passing the ball can be best performed, if the grass is high enough or the field is soft. If the ball rolls along the

ground towards a player and if the field is hard, it will be hard to send back the rotating ball. (Figure 27: Technique of

Recoiling a Rotating Ball).

2. The other method of performing this element is used if a player runs at the ball at an angle, or if the tip of the boot

closes the outer angle with the direction of pass during the performance of the kick. In such case, the lowest parts of the

foot make contact with the lowest part of the ball. Then the leg performs the function cleaning with the ball. These two

technical solutions have the aim of reducing the force - the strength that functions horizontally, and that the contact with

the ball is performed as lowest under the ball as possible. For performing the backward rotation and for stopping the ball

after it falls to the ground, the first method is more useful.

Mistakes in Performing Ball Rotations

a) A player stands too far behind the ball or he does not let the ball to come close enough to him when he kicks it

underneath with the leg.

b) If the ball is moving away from a player, he must kick it quickly with the leg. Otherwise, the ball cannot acquire the

required backward rotation.

c) A player does not keep his head down. Raising the head causes the straightening of the entire body and lifting of the

kicking leg. The kick will be irregular, and under the activity of such kicks the ball will move horizontally, and not

upward.

d) The unnecessary final tracking of the ball with the leg, i.e. a too long contact. The foot with the ball also results in the

unwanted horizontal movement of the ball.

Shots at the Goal with the Ball Moving through the Air

Based on the trail of the hitting ball that is in the air, the pass can be short or long. Here the kicks can be used. For

example, if the force of the ball must be intensified, than we must apply the longer swing of the leg. This force supplying

can be achieved in two ways:

1. A player waits for the execution of the kick, until the ball gets nearest to the ground. This enables the leg swing to be

performed identically as with the ball that stands calm on the ground. Since the ball is not on the ground, when swinging

the leg we must lean a bit backward and sideways. The longer the ball is in the air, and when we want to kick it, we must

lean more, in order to be able to swing in the direction in which we want to send the ball.

2. If our aim is the pass, then the ball flight and the direction of a player's movements are in the same line, and the height

of the actual touch of the ball determines the degree providing the required strength. The higher the ball is, the harder it

is for a player to use the strength of the kick. This is natural, the higher the ball is positioned, the harder it is to put the

shin and the foot down for the realization of the instep kick. Most players when throwing themselves on their backs use

the technique of body inclination for performing the kick from the air, because it enables the earlier leg swing, as well as

the maximum strength kick. This technique is especially important during the shot at the goal, because in those

circumstances the ball path must be rationally straight.

Throwing the Ball over the Head

This shooting technique is performed in the following way. A player leans his body backwards in the direction in which he

wants to kick the ball. As soon as the trunk falls back, a player lifts his upper leg so he can perform a strong kick above

his head. As lower the hip is positioned, the lower is the kick strength.

This is a powerful kick above the head. For example, when shooting at the goal, a player first jumps up and pulls his body

back. The jump enables him to lift his leg up to the height of the ball at the moment of the kick, which means that the ball

path will be low - laid down. This type of the kick above the head can best be applied if the ball is kicked backward over

the opposite shoulder.

For example, a left-handed player, while pulling his body backward after performing scissors in the air kicks the ball with

the left leg backward over the right shoulder. This technical solution is effective and very surprising, but of the entirely

uncertain outcome and result. Nevertheless, sometimes it must be applied, because every other solution requires a lot of

time. It is particularly unsafe if a player falls down on his back and the chances of changing the fall are very small.

Short Volley Kick

It can be performed with any part of the foot, except with the tip of the football boot. Most first-rate soccer players

perform this kick with the instep, with the outer or the inner part of the foot, they perform a very weak leg swing, and the

required movements for performing the kick occur by using the explosive stretching of the knee and swinging of the lower

leg.

The body balance is very important for this kick, because the position of the landing leg and its firmness provides the

foundation from which a player performs the volley kick. The lower leg, as a kind of a short lever, gives a player

extraordinary control and testing of the body balance, which is also the foundation for correct performance.

Kick from the air without long thinking can also be performed with the inner side of the foot, by turning sideways in

respect to the pass direction. Length of such passes is limited. Players use this technique only for short passes to the

teammate who is positioned very close. The pass is performed by a leg swing, which is formed by turning the body at the

hip. As a rule, the knee is bent and positioned at a right angle and is strongly rigid in relation to the ground.

If we kick the ball in this way, it will always make contact with the largest surface of the leg.

Passing the balls with the volley kick (from the air) can be performed so that we rebound the ball with the outer side of

the foot (Figure 28: Technique of the Volley Kick).

Mistakes during the Volley Kick

The first mistake (the incorrect position of the leg)

a) Foot joint is lax although it needs to be firm.

b) Foot joint must be strained downwards, in order to touch the ball with the instep.

The second mistake (the incorrect position of the body)

c) The higher the ball is above the ground in the moment of the kick, the more the body must bend. The body should be

bent approximately at the right angle in respect to the ball path and to the direction in which we want to kick the ball.

Bending the body to the ball is enabled by lifting the kicking leg to the height that is approximately equal to the height of

the ball. This also ensures the ball path.

d) Such bending enables transfer to the kick and full swing of the leg and the body.

Half Volley

This kick is performed when the ball falls to the ground and starts to bounce up. It can be performed with any part of the

leg, and whether the shot or the pass will be low or high, depends on the estimation of a player. Half volley is most

effective if a player wants to pass on the ball which is coming from the air, without stopping. In case of such pass, the

actual collision with the ball must be correct and precise, because in case of even slightest deviation, the kick will not be

successful. A player should position himself well above the ball so that he can watch the ball from above. Kicking

movements of the leg and foot are rather lax, and the kick at the ball is slightly above centre line, which again ensures the

laid down arc of the ball movement. Tracking the balls with the leg (if there is any) is short (Figure 29: Technique of the

Half-Volley Kick).

Mistakes during the Half volley

a) Wrong assessment of the location where the ball will fall. The supporting leg should be as nearer to the ball as possible

when it hits the ground.

b) During the excessive final tracking, the ball will lift up (escape).

c) We do not kick the ball across the centre line.

d) We do not pay attention to the arc of falling and we do not watch the ball during the performance of the kick.

Spin Ball

The ability of passing spin balls strongly is a very useful technique. Every player knows it. For example, we often see a

player who tries to perform the corner kick in the straight line, however, the ball will turn aside from the goal. During

our former analysis of the kicking and passing techniques we were comparing the position of the kicking leg with the

horizontal centre line of the ball, but if now consider also its vertical centre line, it will immediately become clear how to

perform a spin ball.

Let us look at a low (laid down) kick. The principles of rolling the ball that moves along the ground are the same

principles as with the ball that is in the air. While performing a straight, laid down kick the ball is kicked in the middle

and moves right ahead. However, if we kick the ball a bit leftward from its centre it will acquire rotation from the left to

the right. That is, it will return in the clockwise direction, and while moving forward it will turn from its path. In

addition, if we kick the ball a bit rightward from the centre line, it will return in the opposite direction.

That is, the ball will always turn in that direction in which it is spinning. Two types of the spin ball can be achieved with

one and the same leg. For example, if we kick the ball with the left leg and in order for it to spin from the left to the right,

we then hit the left side of the ball with the inner part of the foot or with the inner instep. In addition, if want the ball to

spin from the right to the left, we curve our foot inside, and hit the partially contact area of the ball with the outer part of

our foot. Contact with the ball is performed sideways towards the right hand, and the left leg strongly cross-swings in

front of the body. During this kick the access to the ball is performed more in the direction of the balls and the aim.

If want the ball to roll in the air (for example during the corner kick) the contact point of the leg and the ball should be

sideways, but the ball must be kicked adequately below the horizontal line, according to the preferred height which is

achieved during the flight of the ball. Spinning in the air will change the ball's direction and while bouncing from the

ground it will change its course. A goalkeeper can be tricked by the occasional high thrown ball, which hits the ground in

front of him. Spinning in the air will turn the ball in the certain direction, but it will also cause it to rebound in the

opposite direction when it falls to the ground.

Defender should be tricked and passed by the spin ball, if its technique is frequently and successfully performed during

the one high-level game, although such ball represents difficulties. Whenever we pass the ball to our teammate we try not

to produce any problems during its reception.

Dribbling

What is dribbling in soccer?

Dribbling denotes the movements or moves of a soccer player performed in order to confuse the opponent player.

In soccer game situations frequently happen when a player before taking over the ball, kicking, heading or taking away

finds himself in the double bind. He is obstructed by the opponent player. If there are no teammates who stand freely and

who can accept the passed ball, it is advisable, even, necessary to perform such movements, which can be appropriate for

distracting the opponent, confusing the opponent, and also for gaining time or space. Dribbling has developed parallel

with the development of soccer and now it is on such level, that one needs special tools to break dribbling. The "ancient"

soccer, when a players' task was just to run and shoot the ball, has represented the characteristics of a good player who

knew how to kick the ball far, or was able to run quickly and enduringly.

However, after a certain time, soccer players could not get rid of the ball right away. They kept it a bit longer, leading it

in the direction of the opponent field. However, during the ball leading they frequently came into contact with the

opponent. Since the tactical tools for passing the ball have not yet been applied that much because of the lack of

technique. They tried to avoid and bypass the opponent during the ball leading. Therefore, they were essentially

dribbling.

The circumstances demanded from the opponent player to keep at a distance, to be deceived and mislead, as today in the

modern soccer, and that a good player accepts dribbling only when the circumstances force him to.

Preconditions (Abilities) for Dribbling

Every player is capable of performing deceptive and misleading movements. However, that by itself is not enough.

Dribbling should be performed in such a way to achieve the goal, namely to deceive and mislead the opponent.

Movements intended for deceiving the opponent must be convincing, because otherwise the deception will be transparent.

The attempts will become redundant and futile. However, the intention and decision itself for performing a good

dribbling are still not enough to carry out a good dribble, a feint, there must be is a certain amount of objective physical

and mental preconditions.

Physical and Mental Preconditions for Dribbling

A player who wants to dribble well and confidently should have following physical and mental characteristics.

1. Among physical factors required for performance of dribbling we should first mention the low gravity center of the

body. Especially in performing dribbling it is very important that a player has a low gravity center of the body. Practical

experience and results prove that typically those players who can convincingly and unexpectedly swindle with the ball,

are of the smaller height, and especially if they are short-legged and trip. This basic fact is evident and tangible. A player

who has low gravity center does not sway his body as much as a player whose center of gravity is higher. Consequently,

moving of the gravity center and his shifting it to the original position is incomparably faster for a player of smaller

height, than for a taller player.

2. We should also categorize the speed among the physical preconditions. For performing a fast movement, besides the

functioning of the nervous system, the basic preconditions are good musculature, the quickness of stretching and

tightening of the muscles. Sudden movements should quickly replace one another because otherwise the opponent would

be able to monitor the sequence of movements and motions.

3. Very important precondition is the skill (agility, swiftness). Surprising and real movements that are performed as part

of dribbling movements usually do not follow one another as in reality (on the natural manner). The contrary unusual

movements of a player (dribbler) should be performed within a short period of time. As a result of the changeability of a

dribbler's movements, the rhythm of single parts of swindling cannot be the same, as for example the movements during

the ordinary running. While performing dribbling, a player needs a great skill, precise coordination of movements, and

easy performance of movements. However, it would be incorrect if the idea of skill in connection with dribbling would be

restricted only in relation to the bodyweight. When performing skillful movements, dribbling, besides physical factors,

mental factors also have an important role, such as recognizing the situation, quick decision-making, imagination and a

number of other mental traits.

4. Dribblers must have a rich imagination. This imagination must be displayed and demonstrated not only by the use of

various dribbling. By itself, this is just one part of dribbling, and actually its easier part. A player who is a good dribbler

must immediately see the results of his movements.He must know and sense the opponent's reactions to his move. He

must identify with his opponent's reasoning and thinking.

5. Among mental factors of dribbling we must inevitably mention fast responding, and quick reasoning. The sense of

observation, moving of the opponent, quick reasoning in unexpected situations, and quick decisions for the course line as

well as for the speed of accomplishment (performance) depends considerably on functioning of the nervous system, in the

very beginning of fast and interchangeable movements.

6. Likewise, a sense for rhythm (tempo) is in significant relation with skill and agility as mental factors of dribbling. A

player, as a skillful and agile dribbler, has a considerably developed sense for the rhythm. A player who performs

dribbling must be cautious of his own and his opponent's movements. Contrary and unexpected movement should be

performed only if the opponent has already reacted to the first movement. The unexpected movement which is initiated

before due time gives result that the opponent will see the actual movement which is confusing, but if the second

movement is performed immediately after the first, the opponent will be able to react to the second movement with delay.

Therefore, he has not realized the feint. However, if this movement with another intention a player initiates too late, leads

to a result that it is too conspicuous in the time of reacting of the opponent player, therefore he will be able to monitor

misleading movements in time, and so it would be impossible to perform the essentially useful dribbling.

Categorization of Dribbling

When categorizing the technique, we speak about movements that are performed with and without the ball. Accordingly,

the various "feint movements", dribbling movements can be performed with, but also without the ball.

Based on the abovementioned, dribbling movements are classified into the following two groups:

a) feint without the ball (body feint) and

b) feint with the ball that can be performed in connection with body feints (combined dribbling).

Body Feints without the Ball

Body feint denotes false movements that a player usually performs in order to divert the opponent's attention from the

course line he intends to proceed.

Body feint can be performed with any part of the body. For example, it can be done with the leg, upper part of the body,

the hands, and even with the head. Body feint is really performed by players without the ball, but the final objective of

these movements is to create favorable conditions for taking control of the ball or to pass the ball further.

We also use feints when we want to break free from the opponent's control. Running speed is not always sufficient, if we

want to escape from the opponent. However, if running is related to the unexpected body feints, then, on our initiative,

opponent can react only after a certain time. That time is enough to move away from the opponent and to create more

favorable circumstances and situations.

What is really a body feint? One part of the body is in motion. For example, we start to run in one direction, we perform

that movement deceptively with another intention. Before we start to move we decide to perform the movement in the

opposite direction. However, the opponent standing in front of us is usually prepared to react only to the first misleading

movement, but only when the response time runs out. If at this point we timely change the previous direction (our first

movement), the opponent will have difficulties responding to that, not only because ha has noticed the new movement.

Therefore his response will come after the reaction, also because he must overcome the inertia force of his body during

the performance of the first movement.

Use of a Body Feint in the Game

During the game every player can apply body feints. Feints can help to improve the situation in the game for defenders, as

well as for forwards.

Goalkeepers also perform body feints in certain situations, for tactical reasons. For example, during the penalty kick they

incline the upper part of their bodies to one side. This is performed in order to obstruct a player who takes the penalty

kick and to induce him to shoot the ball in the opposite corner, to the seemingly uncovered side of the goal. A goalkeeper

is already prepared with this hidden intention and with this performance, the lowering and lifting of the hands, he wants

to confuse a player who takes the penalty kick.

Inclination of the upper part of the body to the lateral side can be performed during running out. That forces a soccer

player who breaks through toward the goal to pushes the ball to the opposite side of the goal, and the goalkeeper is

prepared for it.

The objective of defensive players' feint is to divert a forward player from his original intention, and in this way create a

more favorable situation, from the defensive point of view. For example, he seems as if he is about to attack a player who

leads the ball, but in the last moment he slows down his run. In this way it will be easier to perform the defensive task and

taking away the ball, and especially if the opponent gets scared.

Defenders frequently use as the feint inclination of the upper part of the body to the lateral side in order to lure the

opponent to try to go around them from the other side which is left open. If a player would want to outrun his opponent

along the side that was left open, a defensive player has achieved his goal because he is already prepared for the opponent

to start going to the opposite side. This feint is performed successfully by defenders against the opponent wingers. They

close the path alongside the touchline. Then wingers try to lead the ball towards the other side that is open. However,

defenders are prepared for this move and they cut the ball.

How should a forward break free from the defender?

From the place where he is standing he suddenly makes a move to the lateral side, as if he intends to escape in that

direction. However, after one step he changes the direction of his movement and starts running to the opposite side. This

misleading movement can be related with inclination of the upper part of the body towards the forward leg. In this way,

the body feint of a forward player can remain much more convincing.

One form of feint is if the forward runs towards the ball which moves towards him through the air or rolls along the

ground, as if he wants to kick it, but in the last moment he lets the ball pass by him, and thus creates a favorable situation

for himself or his teammates. This feint, usually in front of the goal, can be efficient in cases of sharp and low passes of the

ball. Defenders watch carefully forward players who run towards the ball, and cover the other players at a distance.

Technique of Body Feint

This technique is individual. Therefore the patterns and the forms of particular feints are impossible to describe. During

the feint, or deceptive movements with a part of the body, it is advisable not to incline gravity center of the body too much

out of the basic central position, because otherwise the other movement in the feint will be difficult to perform quickly.

Therefore it is more correct if the gravity center of the body remains in the approximate original position, and if the feint

is restricted only to pushing aside that part of the body.

For the purpose of more successful and faster performance the change of the course line, it would be good if the gravity

center of the body were lowered down to the rational limit even before the starting of opposite movement. In the

meantime, we will change the course line, bend the knees a bit more than is usual, and while performing the half turn we

bend backward a little. In respect to training body feint we cannot speak about the school training, or the professional

school. It is better if soccer players try and make efforts to subordinate their subjective preconditions for performing

body feints (speed, skill, vivacity, and correct control over the gravity center of their bodies etc.) to their abilities and

competence. These preconditions can be developed and helped by certain drills and games (Figure 30: Technique of

Deception with the Body)

Dribbling with the Ball

Dribbling with the ball are those movements that a player performs with the ball. Performing these movements with the

ball is much harder than only with the body. That is also natural. The opponent must be deceived in such a way so that

the ball is kept in safe possession or in control. This task demands from a soccer player to have very demanding

coordination of movements.

For which purposes do we use dribbling with the ball?

During the game these situations are frequent, when during the passing of ball, shooting at the goal or diverting the ball

in front of the goal emerge certain confusing situations. Under such circumstances it would not be smart to force the

passing of the ball, shooting at the goal, or throwing out the ball. If possible, players should find the ways out for the

successful passing of the ball, kicking the ball or releasing the ball. This can be so ensured only if we apply deceptive

movements, so before performing the kick or passing the ball we perform dribbling with the ball.

Dribbling with the ball is riskier than body feint, because it does not have serious consequences. However, a mistake

during dribbling with the ball entails the loss of the ball.

The hardest form of feint with the ball is the one which that which is related to the movement of the body. Such cunning

movements can be effectively performed only by good soccer players.

What does a player who dribbles with the ball rely on? He relies on his own initiative and on the delayed reaction of the

opponent. Preconditions of a well performed dribbling with the ball are the same as the preconditions of a body feint. The

unexpected own initiative has advantages in relation to the opponent and insures successful dribbling. Yet, what is the

difference between the body feint and dribbling with the ball?

Formally, only the lack or possession of the ball. Although there are also other differences between these two feints.

In the first part of the body feint a misleading movement was performed, with hidden intentions. In simpler dribbling

with the ball there is no this first part of the movement.

The objective of such dribbling is to underline the ball and throw it out of the action radius of the opponent without any

previous deceptive movement.

However, in complex dribbling we can find body feints, and only after that there follows the leading or the directing of the

ball in previously determined directions. Therefore, the first part of a complex dribbling consists of the body feint, while

the second part consists of the single feint of dribbling with the ball.

Systematization of dribbling with the ball is rather difficult. These movements in the larger part carry the feature of

individuality. In following presentations we will refer to dribbling which is generally familiar and which is used by most

soccer players. Therefore, dribbling which comes into consideration will be divided according to the situation in which a

soccer player or a dribbler finds himself in relation to the opponent.

According to this, we distinguish between dribblings where the opponent is:

a) opposite - face to face with a dribbler

b) behind dribbler's back, or

c) on dribbler's lateral side.

Dribbling with the Ball if the Opponent is in Front

Simple Pulling of the Ball with the Inner Side of the Foot

This dribbling starts with the ball leading. It can be applied against the opponent who for the purpose of taking the ball,

with the full run rushes at the opponent or with the small run. During the ball leading, and on at a distance of 1.5 - 2

meters in front of the opponent (the distance depends primarily on the speed of the movement of two players who are

going towards each other, and on the quality of ground) a player throws one leg out as a support, and shifts the gravity

center of his body on that leg, and at the same time with the inner side of the foot of the other leg he drags the ball off in

front of the opponent in the direction of the leg on which he relies on.

During the game this dribbling is most frequently performed, and it can also be performed in the still position against the

opponent who has attacked. The opponent player who is running cannot change the course line so quickly, as can a

dribbler who is standing still.

The essence of dribbling lies in the speed of movement and the appropriate sense of rhythm. The ball must be quickly

taken in front of the attacking opponent in order to prevent him from successfully responding to our movements. A good

soccer player lets his opponent near, and in the last moment he takes the ball away. A player of weaker abilities should

not let the opponent near him, because under such circumstances the ball usually gets taken by the opponent. A dribbler

remains does not have much time in such situations to support himself on his leg and to take the ball away.

Methodical Procedure of Pulling

the Ball with the Inner Side of the Foot

1. Leading the ball (slalom).

We must point out that students (players) should perform the ball leading slowly (the turns should be performed quickly).

2. After that, students (players) should lead the ball between the positioned pegs (small flags). Distance between the pegs

is gradually reduced up to 1.5 - 2 meters.

3. Performing dribbling during the ball leading against the moving and standing opponent.

4. After that, dribbling can be performed so that the defender easily runs forward, and then during running he should

also obstruct. During dribbling of a forward, a defender should try to close the way of the ball by stretching out his leg

that falls in the direction of pulling the ball. In this part of the drill a dribbler can pull the ball in front of defender in any

direction. In this way the game will be livelier, as well as the attempts of the opponent who obstructs the performance of

dribbling. Later, this drill can be performed so that 2 - 3 players will run against a dribbler, 2 - 3 one behind at a distance

of 6 - 7 meters, and a dribbler must dribble them one after the other.

Pulling the Ball with the Inner Instep of a Foot with the Use of One Body Feint

During ball leading, and while the opponent is approaching, we tilt the upper side of our body to one side so that the

opponent thinks that we will pull the ball to that same side, with the inner instep of the foot. When the opponent responds

to that movement, we suddenly incline the upper side of our body backwards, these stretch out and lean on the leg that is

opposite to the side on which we have previously inclined and use the other leg to take the ball away in front of the

opponent. This dribbling applies if in front of us there is an opponent whose running is slow and timid.

The course of training is the same as the training of previous dribbling, but here before performing the turn a player

must tilt the upper part of his body to the opposite side.

Pulling the Ball with the Inner Instep of a Foot with the Use of Two Body Feints

This dribbling is rarely applied against the opponent who runs in the opposite direction. Generally, it is more efficient

against the opponent who is in the standing position. Wing forward players are trying to break free from defenders by

such dribbling. With the upper part of the body he inclines first to one side, and then to the other, so that he leans on the

leg of that same side of the body. After the second body feint, the upper part of the body resumes the previous position,

and the ball is taken in front of the opponent in the direction of the first body feint. Only skilled players can respond to

this dribbling, and with a good sense for rhythm. When performing dribbling, we must pay close attention to movements

of the opponent. If we perform the body feints too quickly, the opponent cannot monitor our movements.

In such situations it happens that when we are pulling the ball we also bring the opponent in the moment when he has

reacted to our first misleading movement. If we perform feints too slowly, the opponent will see what our intentions are,

so he will not respond but follow the movements of the upper part of our body. In either case, our "deceitful" movements

will become ineffective.

Methodical Procedure of Pulling the Ball with the Inner Instep of the Foot with the Use of Two Body Feints

1. Standing in place, without the ball, feet slightly apart, a player performs double inclination of the upper part of his

body, and then moves in the direction of the first body feint.

2. After this, the previous drill is performed without the ball with the help of one peg (small flags), and then with one

player who stands opposite to the other. The opponent must monitor the body feints performed by the student (player).

3. In the following drill a player positions the ball in front of himself. Standing in the place he performs a double body

feint, and then takes the ball in the direction of the first feint.

4. The same drill as 3, but performed against the opponent who is standing, and the second player monitors the body

feints and when he tries to take the ball to the lateral side, the second player tries to prevent it with the stretched out leg.

5. Standing in the place, a player performs movement in front of the opponent who is slowly approaching.

6. While slowly taking the ball out, a player performs feints first against the fixed barrier, and then against the opponent

who tries to prevent the feint (as under number 4, and later against the opponent who runs toward us.

7. Free training in pairs, and after that in game.

When taking the ball, a frequent mistake is positioning the gravity center of the body too high in the moment of pulling

the ball. In that case the turn will not be surprising. We must particularly emphasize to students (players) that for the

purpose of greater lowering of the body they should bend the knee of the supporting leg as much as possible.

In these variants of pulling of the ball with the body feint, and especially with tall players, mistakes frequently happen,

because the decision of inclining the upper part of the body to the side is not related with transferring and setting the

gravity center on the leg on the same side of the body. Without that, a feint is quite transparent.

A frequent mistake in dribbling is if during the fast running we want to use dribbling against the opponent who runs

towards us. If we badly estimate the staring time of dribbling, it is possible that we would collide with the opponent, or the

opponent will know ahead what our intentions are.

Dribbling with Stepping over the Ball

The opponent approaches from ahead. During the ball leading, we raise one leg above the ball and incline the upper part

of the body a little in the direction of the raised leg. When we start to perform this movement the opponent will respond

and monitor our deceiving movements.

However, during this time the ball will roll forward. However, we suddenly incline the upper part of our body in the

opposite direction and with the inner instep of the other take the ball away in front of the opponent in the direction of the

incline of the upper part of the body.

This dribbling is efficient if it is performed in the standing position or during moving against the opponent who is

standing or attacking us.

Dribbling Method with Stepping over the Ball

For beginners, this is performed in the following way:

1. We set the ball on the ground in front of the leg on about 40 - 50 cm. Dribbling is performed in two rhythms. In the first

rhythm, we raise one leg over the ball (above the ball) and incline the upper part of our body sideways. In the second

rhythm, we position the raised leg on the opposite side of the ball, we shift the weight of the upper part of our body to the

opposite side, and with the other leg we take the ball away.

2. The movements are performed constantly in the place with the ball that is positioned in front of us.

3. Feints are performed in place with the still ball, against the opponent who slowly runs towards us.

4. While slowly moving forward, we perform movements so that first with the inner side of our foot we lead the ball in

front of us.

5. The same as drill 4, but feints should be performed in front of one peg (small flag) or in front of the opponent who is

standing.

6. Dribbler and opponent are slowly running towards each other. Therefore, dribbling must be performed in run. The

opponent tries to intervene only by stretching out his leg. Dribbling is performed in both directions.

7. Free movements.

Very efficient variant of this dribbling is when simultaneously with the body feint we raise the opposite leg on the other

side of the ball, but we do not put it on the ground, but with the backward incline of the upper part of the body and

belonging leg with the outer instep we move the ball away in front of the opponent and lead it further. The course of

training of these variants is the same is as the training of the original dribbling.

Mistakes: If stepping over the ball is not related with setting up the gravity center of the body on the supporting leg, it is

impossible to perform dribbling even if we are standing still during the stepping over, in other words, we do not bend the

knee of the supporting leg more than is usual.

Pulling the Ball Back

This dribbling can be efficiently applied if the opponent stands in front, or if he is approaching from ahead and from the

side. Many players excellently and successfully apply it in game. The ball stands in front of us or slowly rolls forward.

In front of the attacking opponent's leg we move the ball backwards with the sole so that we step on the ball, and then

with the sole draw the ball back, moving the shin in the knee backwards. The gravity center of our body is completely on

the supporting leg, and we keep the balance with the hands.

If this backward dragging is performed after running, then we try at the last step to place the gravity center of our body

back, in order to stop more easily.

After pulling the ball back, there regularly follows fast and indirect ball leading, ball passing or shooting on goal.

When performing dribbling, a player must be very watchful, concentrated and fast. He should also take into

consideration the opponent's intentions, and must wait for the opponent to stretch out his leg and quickly take action

because in case of the delay the opponent will kick the ball in front of us.

Methodical Procedure of Pulling the Ball Back

1. Sole of the boot is positioned on the ball in front of us. Standing in place, we are pulling the ball back for about 15 - 20

cm and then stop.

2. We position the ball on the ground in front of us. We raise one leg, and with sole pull the ball backwards, and then with

the inner side of the foot of the same leg we push the ball to the lateral side, run after it and lead it.

3. We lead the ball slowly ahead. In front of one set obstacle (ball, sweat suit, peg) we suddenly step on the ball, draw it

back and then push it to the side.

4. Two students (players) are standing facing each other at the distance of about 1 _ 0.5 meters. The ball is placed between

them. One will play a dribbler, and the other the opponent. The opponent at first slowly, and then with more and more

quick movements tries to throw the ball out. A dribbler watches the opponent's movements, and tries to draw the ball

back in the right moment, and then to take it to the side.

5. The same as drill 4, but the opponent stands further away and slowly runs towards a dribbler, who in the described

way performs the drill in the standing position.

6. Two players stand one against the other at the distance of about 10 meters. They slowly run towards each other and

during running one tries to throw the ball out, and the other tries to perform dribbling. If the opponent touches the ball,

they change roles.

7. Free training during game, in a way that from possible dribbling it is permitted to use only this dribbling (drawing the

ball backward).

Mistake: Frequently in this dribbling, the sole is placed on the ball earlier than it should. Then the opponent sees our

intention ahead, and he becomes more cautious when stretching out his leg.

Dribbling will not be efficient even if after drawing the ball back, we do not take the ball away quickly, but give the

opponent enough time to stretch his leg again. A frequent mistake is to push the gravity center of the body forward. As

soon as the gravity center is no longer behind the ball line, it is easier to pull the ball back. Therefore, it is advisable to

place the gravity center before dribbling on the heel they of that leg on which we are supported, and to bend the knee.

Dribbling when the Opponent is Positioned Behind our Back

This dribbling is frequently used by defenders. A defender leads the ball facing towards his own goal. In the meantime the

opponent follows behind him. During the ball leading in the straight line, a defender uses one leg to perform the swing as

if wants to direct the ball to the goalkeeper. This movement during the shot may be accompanied by feints. Some

defenders combine the turn of the body with the already familiar dribbling; stepping over the ball.

At these false movements the opponent moves in the direction the kick. Then quickly shifting the gravity center of the

body with the other leg in the opposite direction the defender moves the ball away and directs it to the field.

This dribbling can be correctly performed only while a player is moving. He should be careful in doing so to perform the

turn of the body in the direction of the closer touchline. That is, if dribbling is performed towards the field and if the

opponent counts on that, very easy a dangerous situation may develop and then we could make a mistake.

Methodical Procedure of Dribbling when the Opponent is Positioned Behind our Back

1. After running forward, a player performs a movement by going around the small flag, without the ball and without the

body feint.

2. The same as drill 1, but before the turn of the body a player performs the body feint.

3. After the ball leading, a player returns the ball among the set flags.

4. As under 3, but before returning, a player performs the body feint in the opposite direction.

5. Perform misleading movements against the opponent who is following behind us. The opponent should react to body

feints of that player who is leading the ball.

6. Perform turnings in free drill with the opponent, and perform in feint both directions. The opponent should obstruct

the action and take away the ball.

Mistakes: If, during dribbling, the arc of returning back is too long and the opponent has enough time to follow a

dribbler, even if a dribbler dodges aside. Reason for this is that before the turning, a soccer player does not lower the

gravity center of his body. The knee of the stretched out leg is not bent enough.

Dribbling is also incorrect if after the turn there is no the fast ball leading, or if passing of the ball is delayed. Then it can

happen that the opponent again tries to obstruct a dribbler.

We have already mentioned the tactical mistake, when the turning is performed towards the inner side of the field, or if a

dribbler after the turning goes towards the field. The opponent can then take over the control and unpleasantly surprise a

dribbler.

Reception of the Ball with the Feint

Midfielders usually secure their ball receptions with the feint. While the ball rolls towards him, a player steps out into the

measured straddle position. The gravity center of his body is shifted to the leg with which he stepped out and which is

bent in the knee, and the upper part of the body top bodies is inclined in the direction of the stepping forward, as if he

wants to receive the ball in the direction of moving. While the ball rolls towards him, in the last moment he returns the

upper part of his body into the original position, positions on the opposite leg and takes the ball on the other side of his

body. Dribbler places the ball in front of himself with the inner side of the foot of that leg with which he had performed

the feint, or with the outer instep of the other leg.

This same feint can also be performed with two body feints. The upper part of the body is first inclined in one direction,

and then in the other, which is followed by placing the gravity center of the body on the stepping-out leg. The difference

between the two feints is only that in the second one there is actually one feint more than in the first one. It is useful and

correct to use these two feints alternately in the game.

Method of Receiving the Ball with a Feint

1. Player (student) is standing with his back turned towards one small flag or one player who is standing still. He

performs at free will the body feint first to one side, and then to the other, turning around and running. Runs should be

trained also after the two body feints were performed.

2. Dribbler places the ball in front of himself. He performs a body feint first to one side, and then leads the ball to the

other side.

3. The same as drill 2, but a player (student) takes the ball away after he has performed both feints, with the assistance of

the opponent who is standing behind his back. The opponent should react only to the body feints.

4. Teammate lightly pushes the ball ahead. After performing both body feints he should take the ball towards one lateral

side.

5. The same as drill 4, but with the presence of the opponent. Player (student) at his free will performs one or two feints

before receiving the ball.

6. Receiving the ball with the use of feints is trained freely. The opponent tries to prevent a dribbler from receiving the

ball, but not with the full strength. Student, player, for the sake of livelier drill, should apply alternately both body feints.

The most frequent mistake in dribbling is when the student (player), before receiving the ball, inclines only the upper part

of his body to the side, or places only his leg aside.

Such dribbling is transparent, it is not convincing, and the opponent does not always react to it.

Feint with Turning the Body

without Receiving the Ball

This is the efficient dribbling of forward players, and especially of wingers. It can be well applied in passing semi-strong

rolling balls along the touchline. Dribbler is in front of the opponent who stands behind his back, he performs a body feint

to one side, which looks like he will take over the ball.

Upon this feint the defender moves aside. Dribbler does not touch the ball but lets it freely roll away beside him to the

other side, and then he performs one sudden half-turn towards the leg that is nearer the ball. In case of a slow rolling ball,

this dribbling can be also performed so that during the body feints we lift above the ball that leg which is closer to the ball

in the direction of movements of the upper part of the body. Turn of the upper part of the body should be performed

around the raised and positioned leg in the opposite direction.

Success of dribbling depends on the speed of the half-turn. That is, the opponent will move, upon the body feint from the

balance and in that position it is hard to perform the half-turn. At the same time, a dribbler, as a result of this movement,

gains advantage in relation to the defender.

Method of Feint by Turning the Body

without Receiving the Ball

1. Player (student) performs dribbling (feint) without the ball. He should try, after the body feint, to perform a half-turn

as fast as possible. In addition, the knees should be very bent, and the gravity center of the body should be lowered.

2. Moves should be performed without the ball in the presence of the opponent, and the turns should be performed along

a line and towards a line. A dribbler should run between the line and the moved opponent.

3. Dribbling should be performed towards the ball which rolls along the touchline. The opponent should intentionally

move in direction of the body feint body to make dribbler's position easier.

4. Free training in the presence of the opponent with and without stepping over the ball.

Most frequent mistakes that happen during movements are the following:

Dribbling will rarely be successful if the approaching ball is too fast or if the ball rolls too much during rotation. In the

meantime, possibly some other defender has enough time to intervene.

A frequent mistake of slow turning players is that they initiate the body feint too early, afraid that because of slower

turning they will not be able to catch up with the ball. However, if the feint is performed too early it will reveal dribbler's

intentions. The opponent will not react and so a forward player will end in the hands of the defender. This dribbling

should be used by a player who is agile and fast.

Ball Feints when the Opponent is next to Us

This dribbling is successful and efficient especially when a dribbler and the opponent are in the full run.

A player leads the ball and the opponent runs next to him. In the appropriate moment a player steps on the ball with that

leg which is further from the opponent, but body weight remains on the supporting leg. The opponent will keep running

for some time as a result of the inertia force. After the feint is completed, that is, after the actual release from the

opponent, the ball is passed, or it is led further in the other direction.

This stepping on the ball can be properly performed if the ball is positioned near the leg, under the body.

When performing this dribbling we must stop the ball with that leg which is further from the opponent side. In that case

it will be harder for the opponent to seize the ball. If the ball is stopped with the leg that is nearer to the opponent, he will

keep moving, but during this moving he can kick the stopped ball in front of us.

One variant of this so-called "STOP" dribbling (stepping on the ball with the sole) is the following: If during running we

intentionally reduce the tempo and perform the ball stopping during the easy running, the same as with the leg that is

further from the opponent. But after this there is no passing of the ball or the leading in the other direction, but we use

the same leg when performing one sudden accelerated run to push the ball forward and lead it further in the same

direction.

How will the opponent react to this?

He will accept the rhythm of slow running, then halt, stop in the moment of stepping on the ball. However, suddenly

restarted running, that is, the ball leading, can follow with delay and only in this way we will stop at the distance from the

opponent of 1 _ 0.5 meters.

Method of Ball Feint when the Opponent is next to Us

1. In front of a player (student) the ball is stopped on the ground, at the distance of 3 - 4 meters. A student (player)

approaches the ball in the easy running, and then stops next to the ball, and places the sole on the ball.

2. The same as 1, but after stepping on the ball he performs a half-turn and takes the ball in the opposite direction.

3. We push the ball in front of us with the inner side of the foot. We run after it and then step next to the ball and step on

it with the other leg (sole). After the performed movement we lead the ball a few meters further. Place on which a player

must step on the ball is previously marked by some object.

4. The same as 3, but the opponent runs sideways beside us.

5. We lead the ball slowly, and the teammate runs next to us. In the appropriate moment we perform a feint. We turn

around, leading the ball in the opposite direction and stop the ball with the other leg. After a certain time players change

roles.

One variant of STOP dribbling is performed in the following way:

1. The ball is positioned on the ground in front of a student (player) at the distance of 3 - 4 meters. A player slowly walks

to the ball and stands next to it. He places the sole of the other leg on the ball, and later with the inner foot of same leg

pushes the ball.

2. The same as drill 1, but now performed in the easy running. If performance of feints would be harder with certain

obstructions, then players should perform only the first part of this drill after running. When a player steps on the ball,

he stops and then easily pushes the ball, walking and slowly running.

3. While easily running, lead the ball ahead. When we reach the mark on the ground, we stop and then slowly resume

leading the ball.

4. The same as drill 3, but without stopping.

5. Perform dribbling synthetically. The opponent follows us and monitors our movements.

6. Dribbling feint is performed freely, in easy and in fast running. The roles change periodically.

7. Simple ordinary STOP dribbling and its variant should be applied at free will, with the assistance the opponent who

runs next to us.

The most frequent mistake that happens in movements is the following: a dribbler steps on the ball with his defter leg, not

taking into account position of the opponent.

In addition, from this follows that he frequently steps on the ball with the leg that is closer to the ball. A player who wants

to make good use of this feint, must unconditionally learn to perform dribbling with both legs. It frequently happens that

a player "flies" over the stopped ball. Reason for this is badly positioned gravity center of the body. Before a player steps

on the ball, he shifts the gravity center back, behind the leg line. The knee of the supporting leg must be bent because of

the deeper lowering of the gravity center in the moment of stepping on the ball.

In addition, the frequent mistake, especially by the beginners, is to step on the ball with the full body weight.

As a consequence, we easily lose the body balance.

Feint with the Leg Swing

It is similar to STOP dribbling.

During running, a player lifts above the ball a leg that is further from the opponent. This appears as if he wants to stop

the ball with the sole. Leg swings from the knee and the upper leg first forward, and then backward. During this

maneuver the ball rolls forward. After the backward swing of the leg, a player stands on the ground and continues with

the running, that is, the ball leading. Feint will be even more effective if the swinging leg is not put down on the ground,

but a player continues to lead the ball from the backward swing.

The opponent, after seeing lifting of the leg above the ball, unintentionally stops, and lowers his running speed. This

stopping is enough to move away from the opponent who is following a player. This dribbling, which is performed by

stepping on the ball and with leg swings is popularly called a BICYCLE feint. It can be performed efficiently at easy and

medium running pace, and especially if after the performed false movement of the legs there follows the ball leading with

sudden acceleration.

This dribbling should be performed during the game, and if possible, with alternations. Then the opponent will be

insecure.

Methodical Procedure of Feint with the Leg Swing

1. "Misleading" movements should be performed without the ball, standing in place. Leg swings should be performed

with both legs, several times one after another.

2. The same as drill 1, but now the swings should be performed over the stopped ball.

3. Leg swings should be performed during the easy running, with both legs alternately one after the other, without the

ball.

4. A player stops the ball in front of him at the distance of 4 - 5 meters. After the easy running he performs the leg swing

above the stopped ball, and then leads the ball further.

5. A player easily pushes the ball in front of him and performs a feint above the ball that moves during the slow running,

and then he starts leading the ball.

6. During the ball leading at slow and later at the medium pace, a player performs a feint several times.

7. The same as drill 6, but now the opponent follows from the lateral side. A teammate runs next to a dribbler. The

opponent should monitor dribbler's movements, but he should be taking the ball away from him.

8. A feint should be performed freely at the favorable moment, with the opponent at the side. After 4 - 5 performed feints,

the roles change.

Mistake in performing the movements: The most frequent mistake is when players want to perform a feint during the fast

running.

A feint is rarely efficient during the fast running. That is, then the swinging leg has no time to perform a convincing

swing. Then dribbler's movement may be barely noticeable. The opponent has nothing to react to. Therefore, dribbling

has not been performed.

A movement feint will have no effect if after the leg swing there is no accelerated ball leading, and if the moment when the

opponent stops is not used as a favorable opportunity.

Importance of Dribbling

As we have already mentioned, dribbling - feinting is an efficient means in the soccer game. It enriches the game with

numerous twists, funny moves, it creates unexpected situations, and makes the rational use of this technical element

possible. However, dribblings can also be misused because they do not function in the interest of the team. As long as the

player performs dribbling - feints in order to achieve rational and reasonable tactical aim, the existence of dribbling is

justified. However, in no way can it be recognized as a positive dribbling - feinting which the dribbler performs only

individually or to amuse the audience. Therefore, we are talking about useful and not useful, that is, meaningless

dribbling - feint.

Players perform numerous variants of dribbling. Among other things, this makes the play funnier, more interesting in

performing excellent variants in attacking. Purposeful performance of movements and moves is integrated into the plan

of the very play of the team.

If the forward player, who breaks to the goal, meets "eye to an eye" with a well placed goalkeeper, he will try to trick the

goalkeeper, to dribble him in order to score a goal.

Therefore, dribbling is of great significance in today's modern and fast play. We make a distinction between useful and

not useful dribbling, as well as between players who dribble effectively, and those who dribble unnecessarily.

There are few technical elements that make self-assertion possible, as dribbling does. We described earlier a few

dribblings - feints, mainly those that can be learned most easily.

The player performing one and the same dribbling all the time will soon be exposed.

Evaluation of the dribbling importance is also seen in the role that a player has on the team. Forward players are not only

permitted, but also required to perform dribbling. As we are getting closer to the defensive line, dribbling should be less

frequent. We are not saying that defense players should not dribble occasionally.

Therefore, we can conclude: in general, exceptional dribbling ability of each individual player is an advantage, but the use

of dribbling is not permitted in the same degree for each role and for each playing position on the team. Forward players

can dribble, most frequently midfield players. Defensive players only in exceptional cases. In addition, in the end, we can

conclude that dribbling is, as a rich movement of players, one of the most efficient technical elements in the soccer game.

Stealing the Ball

What is meant under the term "stealing the ball"?

If we steal the ball which is in possession of the opponent, if we push the ball directed towards him with the leg or

rebound it with the head, we say that the opponent has been disabled.

Therefore, under this term we mean a direct stealing of the ball from the opponent. At the initial stages of the

development of soccer, there was no mentioning of the ball stealing. The play was dominated by drop kicks, intensity of

the kick and running speed.

However, with the development of a rational play, the increasing need to disable the opponent was felt at the same time.

That is, more advanced players did not drop the ball immediately. They took it, led it and dribbled it. Speed advantage

itself was no longer sufficient for stealing the ball. The ball had to be stolen from the opponent. In essence, the elimination

of the opponent from the play does not include only direct stealing of the ball. Defensive players help in disabling of the

opponent with good positioning, so it is impossible for the opponent to have possession of the ball in the given situation,

because he is being guarded by the opponent player. Exclusion of the opponent from the play in such a way is called

indirect disabling of the opponent, but this is already a pure tactical problem.

For ball stealing in wider terms we can ask the following question: is stealing of the ball technical or tactical element?

The same question could be asked for every technical element, but beside dribbling and stealing the ball, there is a

technical part in which general tactical principles are intertwined very much with the technique.

Performing shapes and forms of all movements in the play are technical questions, anyway. The tactics already gives

answers to questions such as "when" and "how".

Still, in spite of the fact that the tactics plays a bigger role in stealing the ball in the play than in other technical elements,

technical relations and links cannot be disputed in the stealing of the ball. Stealing methods are various, similar to those

in dribbling. Many stealing methods have individual solutions and forms inside of them. However, in the stealing of the

ball there are some generally acceptable solutions and forms whose knowledge is unconditionally desirable and required.

During exercising, we will train these forms apart from the play and from the duel. Stealing is highly technical and

tactical medium of defensive players, but forward players also perform it in some cases.

Opponent players who possess the ball are not left alone by those forward players who are tactically educated. They try to

obstruct them when passing the ball, kicking the ball or when receiving it, and maybe even when dribbling it. This is why

it is necessary that, together with defensive players (narrower defense), assistants, forward players also acquire the

technique of stealing the ball, and stealing tactics later on.

Physical and Mental Factors

in Stealing the Ball

Beside the adoption of performing correct techniques and tactics of stealing the ball, there are also such physical and

mental abilities whose presence is necessary during stealing.

1. When talking about physical requirements, we first need to emphasize physical strength. In modern soccer, and based

on experience, fighting characteristic, together with playing abilities, becomes more important. New views on the soccer

game do not slow down the potential need to use physical strength. The use of physical strength makes the rules of the

play itself possible, since strength of the body can be used in allowed circumstances (shouldering in the struggle for the

ball with adequate body positions) under the assumption that it is not violent.

Correct technique of stealing the ball and the use of rational tactics do not always provide possibilities to paralyze the

opponent. There are situations when the stealing technique becomes evident only with the necessary use of strength.

2. Even skillfulness as physical ability (agility, inventiveness) is not unnecessary. Being close to the opponent, performing

complex movements during stealing, and falling on the ground without consequences, all demand great skillfulness.

Defensive player cannot perform certain forms of stealing in most favorable moments for them. Circumstances, opponent

and position of the ball create very often completely different situations for ball stealers, but they must successfully deal

with the task in spite of all problems.

3. When talking about mental conditions, we must mention the ability of fast recognition of a situation and of quick

decision-making. Performing technical elements in space and time depends mostly on players' decisions. For example,

time of passing the ball and location of the pass are most often decided by the player, whether he is assistant or forward

player. However, the player who is getting ready to steal is not always the one to decide on stealing. Time and place of

stealing the ball, and therefore its success, depend on many factors. These crucial stealing factors often provide the

possibility only up to certain moments. If the defensive player notices and uses these possibilities on time, stealing of the

ball can be successful, otherwise the situation will be hopeless. Recognition of the possibilities and giving commands to

move the body refers mostly to the ability to quickly recognize the situation and to make a decision.

4. Ability to recognize situations and make decisions for stealing the ball should always be kept in mind: player who

possesses the ball, position of the ball and position of his own teammates. Therefore, the defensive player who wants to

steal the ball is being forced to look in all directions.

5. When stealing the ball, courage and personal characteristics should not be underestimated. Stealing of the ball is often

linked to collision of the bodies and pain. Moves and movements of the player who steals the ball are risky. Play of a timid

player in the role of defensive player does not have much value, but a brave defensive player always has mental advantage

over the opponent.

Systematization of Ball Stealing

Method of stealing can hardly be systematized. Momentary changes of space, time and conditions do not always allow the

use of generally known technique. By adjusting himself to situations, defensive player can use numerous variants of many

stealing methods. Because of clear comprehension, generally known methods of stealing the ball (such as dribblings) can

be divided on the basis of relation between the forward and the stealer.

Performance of stealing depends on the opponent's body position:

a) In front

b) From the back

c) On the side

a) Front stealing is performed in the most common way of stealing, in other words, this is a so-called basic stealing.

b) Opponent can be separated from the ball from behind with a jump forward, but with one of the most complex and

riskiest way of movement, in other words, this is stealing by slide tackling.

c) The easiest way of stealing the ball from the opponent who is running next to us is by correct pushing, taking the ball

away.

Basic Stealing

While leading the ball, opponent often loses control of the ball. The ball rebounds slightly further from him. This

expected moment makes the stealing very easy. The defensive player simply kicks the ball in front of the forward player.

This way of stealing is usually performed if the opponent forward comes closer from the front and then if he runs

sidelong. The purpose of this stealing is to wait for the moment in which the forward allows the ball to get away slightly

further from him. In that moment the player should accelerate his running and kick the ball with full determination in

front of the opponent.

This stealing technique is entirely individual and therefore we believe that every further description would be

unnecessary. Kicking of the ball can be performed with every part of the leg. However, there are also such moments in

which the defender misses the wanted moment for stealing or the opportunity itself, or the forward leads the ball so well

that there is no the possibility to take the ball from him.

In such instances, a direct duel between defender and forward takes place. The defensive player stands in the forward's

path that is approaching him and is trying to prevent him from moving further.

Basic stealing is always used against the opponent who is running towards us and only when the ball is close enough to the

forward player, which helps the defender perform a simple kicking of the ball in front of the forward.

Basic Stealing Technique

The player who has the intention of stealing the ball stands in front of the opponent and blocks the direction of the ball

with the inner side of one foot. Body weight is on the forward's supporting leg that is slightly bent in the knee. In special

cases, if we actually seize the ball, the body weight can also be placed on the leg that steals the ball. When stepping next to

the ball or in front of the ball, then the longitudinal axis of the foot of the supporting leg is turned frontward. In addition,

the leg, with which the defender steals the ball, is twisted in the joint, same as when performing the kick with the inner

side of the foot, so that the longitudinal axis of the foot is vertical to the direction of the approaching ball. It is possible to

place the leg in such a position if the leg used for stealing the ball is slightly bent in the knee. In the moment of stealing,

the upper part of the body leans slightly forward, and arms on the side hold the balance.

How is the ball stolen?

When the forward is approaching with the ball, the defender is trying to stand as near as possible in front of the

opponent. With the leg, intended for stealing the ball, he swings backwards, same as when he wants to perform the kick

with the inner side of the foot, which is possible to a lesser degree, and then strongly strains joints and muscles, placing

the legs in front of the ball like some kind of a barrier. In that moment, there is no real contact of the leg with the ball.

The leg withdraws slightly to the front and the player increases the strength used for stealing the ball. The effect of

stealing will be increased if the defender pushes the opponent with the adequate part of the body (shoulder to shoulder)

not in a violent way. The opponent will, after having kicked the defender because of inertia force of moving, leave the ball

and then the ball will remain at the leg of the stealer (Figure 31: Basic Stealing Technique).

Stealing training should begin early. Still in the beginning of the movement training, we try to teach students (players)

how to use their physical strength when stealing the ball, in this case, the upper part of the body. Some students (players)

are afraid of body collisions. They are not used to it. This may be painful in the beginning. Which is why it is correct that

students (players) perform exercises which drill body collisions before the basic stealing training, but they should perform

them in the form of games (throwing a medicine ball to shorter distances, cockfight).

Forms of the basic stealing training are following:

1. Two players face each other, and the ball is between them. One player stands on the right side of the ball, and the other

on the left side so that their feet are almost on the ball line. Both of them keep their other leg swung in the back. To the

whistle signal both players swing at the ball and try to kick the ball with the inner side of the foot at the same time.

2. One player has the ball and he is standing still. The other is running towards the ball on 3-4 meter distance. Similar to

the first drill. They swing at the ball at the same time with the same leg. If the drill is performed correctly, the ball will

remain at the feet of the player who is guarding the ball, while the forward could attack over the ball during the run.

3. During the walk, player A is leading ball with one leg towards player B. Player B is in the still position, waiting for

player A. Player B puts his leg in front of the ball exactly when player A touches the ball with the inner side of the foot.

4. Same as drill 3, but this time player A leads the ball, running slowly towards player B who is in the still position.

5. Players A and B are coming close to each other by walking slowly. One player leads the ball and the other steals it.

With an element (leg) determined in advance, they are trying to push the ball one in front of the other. In the moment of

the contact of both legs, students (players) try to push away each other with shoulders.

6. Basic stealing performed freely. Same as in drill 5, but this time players meet in places and situations determined in

advance.

Basic Stealing Mistakes

a) Incorrect stealing is (except in special cases) if the center of the body gravity is not on the basic leg, but on the leg which

performs the stealing. It is indisputable that a stiff surface of the stealing leg creates a stronger resistance during such

performance. However, at the same time, the leg propped on the ground can be easily injured as a result of the collision.

It is more correct to place the body weight on the propped leg, in order to avoid injuries and maintain stability.

b) It is a mistake if the player stealer does not stiffen the stealing leg. Injuries in violent collisions are frequent because the

leg is loose.

c) Stealing effect is reduced if the player stealer does not use his physical strength, which is otherwise allowed by the play

rules.

d) It is also a mistake if the player stealer is mainly concentrated on using his physical strength. The result of that is a

forceful kick of the defensive player, therefore it will be performed incorrectly, or if he uses too much of his strength, he

will not pay proper attention to the ball and he might even lose it.

Stealing by Slide Tackling

Stealing by slide tackling is one of the most difficult elements of player's technique. It is used when the opponent has

already run by us and there are no more possibilities to push the opponent directly and properly shoulder to shoulder, or

when the opponent is no longer reachable. Then the only remaining possibility to steal the ball is by slide tackling.

This stealing method is rather risky. In the first place because the sliding itself on the field is connected to collisions with

the opponent. The opponent cannot monitor the player who is getting ready to slide tackle, and therefore he cannot be

completely careful, in a sports sense, not to injure his body. Therefore, stealing by slide tackling is risky, before all, for the

player stealing the ball.

During stealing in this way, both players usually fall on the ground, both the leader and the stealer of the ball. Forward

player leading the ball can fall over the stealer's leg even if the stealer performs the stealing correctly. Under such

circumstances referees often signal the slide tackling as irregular. Even trained referees often make a mistake in the

assessment of regularity of stealing methods. Stealing by slide tackling is also risky even if we consider the fact that the

defender is on the ground during the stealing.

Defender lies on the ground and that prevents him from repeating the attempt, if he fails in the first attempt. In other

words, in order to try to steal the ball again he must get up from the ground, start running again, which demands some

time. However, during that time, that forward or some player from his team can continue playing with the ball.

Because of the mentioned risks of stealing by slide tackling and together with its efficiency, it is recommended to perform

it only if there is no other possibility, based on the defender's estimation. Performing limitations of sliding stealing are

first explained because of the possibility of wrong estimation, and second, because of a temporary expulsion from the

game. In the given circumstances (wet, damp field, next to the touchline), stealing by slide tackling is very efficient

medium of defensive players.

When is slide tackling performed correctly?

As we have already said, very often during stealing by slide tackling happens that the forward falls over the defender's leg

and the referee will consider it a tripping offense. However, one circumstance is crucial. Did the sliding leg first touch the

opponent or the ball during the collision? In other words, if, during the slide tackling, the leg of the player stealer first

touches the ball and consequently also pushes the opponent's leg, or if the forward falls over the defender's leg after

kicking the ball, then the stealing under no circumstance can be considered irregular.

On the other hand, if the defensive player who chooses this way of stealing first touches, during the slide tackling, some

part of the opponent player's body and only after the ball itself, then the stealing is irregular. Such cases occur more often

if the leg lying closer to the opponent reaches for the ball.

Technique of Stealing by Slide Tackling

Slide tackling is performed behind the opponent's back and a bit diagonally with the leg that is further from the

opponent. If the ball is, according to our estimation, in an approachable place and distance, then by sliding with the so-

called outer leg, slightly bent in knee, stretching it in front of the opponent and with the inner side of the foot or the sole

we kick the ball in front of the opponent. The supporting leg in the back is also bent in the knee.

In order to make the performance of this stealing safer and more efficient, roll down on the ground in the direction of the

stretched leg. Such performance makes further rolling down possible. During the fall on the ground, the outer part of the

stretched leg, upper leg, falls down first and then the lateral side of the body. The fall is cushioned by the hand that is on

the same side as the stretched leg. The other hand remains in the natural position and maintains the balance.

Slide tackling, that is, the fall on the ground is performed correctly and gradually. During the stealing, eyes should follow

the ball. After the stealing by slide tackling, the player should get up, if possible, as soon as possible and be ready for the

repeated intervention.

Why do we stretch the leg that is further in respect to the opponent's position, in direction of the ball? First of all because,

in this way, the ball can be kicked more easily in front of the opponent, without touching some other part of the body. The

leg bent in the knee is stretched as a bar in front of the opponent.

By using the leg that is closer in respect to the opponent, upper legs of both players collide. This is forbidden and

irregular in respect to the stealer of the ball. At the same time, the leg closer to the opponent is stretched and during the

propping on the ground the knee is overstrained.

If we stretch the leg now, heavy knee injury may come as a result of it. Therefore, in this case the stretched leg is a certain

support, while the sliding leg, in the recommended way of stealing, represents a certain bar that could endure a possible

load of the opponent. In other words, injury risk is lower.

Based on these two points of view, it is recommended to stretch the leg distant in respect to the opponent's body position

when stealing (Figure 32: Technique of Stealing by Slide Tackling).

Method of Stealing by Slide Tackling

We need to observe the training of stealing professionally and perform it in training sessions. Young players absolutely

need to train the skill of stealing the ball, in spite of the fact that they use it rarely in the play. Correct technique and its

training are justifiably demanded because of the heavy injury risk and because of prevention of irregularities in

performance of the same stealing methods. During the training of stealing by slide tackling, our work proceeds according

to the following procedures.

1. Players are in the attacking position. The leg in front is bent in the knee and the one in the back only slightly. From that

position, the players gradually roll forward to the lateral side. First the lower leg touches the ground, then the upper leg,

then the hip and finally the upper part of the body. The leg bends considerably in the knee during these movements. The

fall is cushioned by the hand on the ground. These movements should be performed a few times one after the other on

both sides.

2. The described drill should be performed after a step forward position, after walking and then after easy running.

3. Drill in point 2 is performed with a ball. The ball is placed in front of the student (player) at a 4-5 meter distance, from

the run-line to the lateral side at about 1 meter length in respect to the supporting leg. The player needs to push the ball

aside using the already shown technique, or kick it out.

4. Slide tackling in the direction of the opponent. One player simulates a kick at the ball in front of him. A teammate

stealing behind his back (in the well-known way) stretches the leg towards the ball and kicks it out in front of the

opponent's leg. Both players' contact with the ball should be simultaneous.

5. Same as in point 4 but this time the defender, after having made a few steps, attacks the opponent, standing in place, by

slide tackling start from the front in the run.

6. Both players run slowly. The stealer should intervene, stretch his leg towards the ball at the moment in which his

teammate kicks the ball with the leg that is further away from the stealer.

7. Free training. The player leading the ball moves forward, first at a slow and later at a medium rate. The stealer should

slide tackle at the right moment, and then jump on his feet. This drill, that is slide tackling, should be performed on both

sides. Roles should change occasionally.

Mistakes in Slide Tackling

a) Frequent mistake is when the stealer's upper part of the body remains in the vertical position after having performed

slide tackling. The stretched leg slides on the field with a part of the heel, not with the outer side of the leg. As a result of

it, the leg usually does not touch the ball with the surface of the foot, and this is because the leg is overstrained.

b) It is incorrect if the so-called inner leg of the player leading the ball is in front. Then the stretched leg collides with the

forward's leg and the leg movement is performed incorrectly.

c) It is a serious mistake is when we want to slide tackle and perform it completely behind the opponent's back.

Consequence of an attempt always represents irregularity, foul play. The opponent should be approached diagonally

behind the back.

Stealing the Ball while Jumping Forward

The opponent can be separated from the ball if the ball directed towards him is rebounded with the head, kicked or stolen

at the right moment by previously performing a jump forward. This stealing method does not require any special

performing technique. It requires a quick start and agility during the change of course. The only more difficult task than

the performance itself of this stealing method is choosing the right time and place for the performance of a jump forward

because the success of this way of stealing depends on it, in the first place. However, this question is not of technical but of

tactical nature.

Pushing

When the ball rebounds little bit further away from the opponent, it can be stolen by simply kicking it out. If we run

faster than the opponent runs and can get in front of him, then we can use basic stealing, and we can even perform

changed forms of stealing by slide tackling without problems in certain situations.

However, defensive players should also understand the correct shoulder-to-shoulder pushing technique, because it can be

very useful when stealing the ball.

The pushing is one of the easiest and most efficient ways of stealing the ball in the moment in which the opponent runs

next to us and we want to steal the ball that is, put it under our control.

Those players whose characteristic is competitiveness in the play possess developed stealing of the ball performed by the

correct pushing in the first place. In addition, what do rules of the play say about the use of strength? Physical strength

during the game could be of great significance if it is used for stealing the ball and keeping it in possession, if the player

uses his strength in a particular moment and in the end if these moves and movements are not performed violently.

It is obviously the first condition for the moment of stealing the ball. The goal of the moves and movements of the player

stealing the ball is to steal the ball.

Correct pushing performed under certain circumstances in the case in which the player is running next to us can only be

performed correctly with shoulders. The identical body position could occur in this case, or if both players touch each

other with their shoulders. Every third case is obvious (clear offense).

Correct Pushing Technique

When the opponent player, running next to us, places his body weight on the leg further away from us to the so-called

outer leg, we push him back vigorously with shoulders to the lateral side. This shoulder pushing should be performed, if

possible, when our body weight is also on the outer leg, therefore on the leg that is further away from the forward. That

is, in that position the legs will maintain the balance even if the pushing fails.

During the pushing, the hand closer to the opponent's body should be pressed against our body, because, if not, the

referee might consider the pushing irregular. In the moment of pushing, the supporting (outer) leg needs to be bent very

much in the knee, because of lowering the center of body gravity. It is necessary to do so in order to maintain the balance.

Why is it necessary to shoulder the opponent when he stands on the leg that is further away from us?

If we shoulder the opponent when his body weight is on the leg that is closer to us then the push of our shoulder will most

often be without effect, and we will not realize our goal. The opponent cannot be separated from the ball. He can

immediately restore the loss of balance if he places his body weight on the leg which is further away from the stealer,

therefore he will prop himself up.

However, if we push the player, who possesses the ball, when his body weight is on the leg that is further away from the

stealer, then he cannot establish the lost balance immediately. He will swerve considerably from the direction of the ball.

We are not saying that one hard push is inefficient, but one weaker push of the shoulder and the result is almost certain, if

the opponent leans against the leg which is further away from the forward, though only for a moment (Figure 33: Pushing

Technique).

Correct Pushing Method

It would be correct to include in the training program, already before the training of the correct pushing, one or two

additional drills that require more intense body collisions (cockfight, throwing medicine balls).

After these additional drills, the training is performed as follows:

1. Two players walk side by side, almost touching each other's shoulders. One forward (forward player) and one defender

(defensive player). They walk together, and then when the forward steps forward on the leg that is further away from the

forward, the defender shoulders him.

2. The same drill as in point 1, but this time performed with easy running.

3. One player leads the ball while walking and at the same time performs a shoulder kick, and then leads the stolen ball

away.

4. Drill in point 3 should be performed during easy running.

5. Free correct pushing, but the player with the ball opposes himself, props up with shoulders at the moment of walking,

and pushes his teammate with shoulders.

Pushing Mistakes

a) One mistake is if the player leading the ball does not press his arms against the body, but instead uses them for stealing

the ball. The referee will award a free kick.

b) It is incorrect if the player who steals the ball does not pay attention to the opponent's movements, even only by

glancing at him. This will result in a mistake because the player cannot perform a precise shoulder kick when the

opponent places his body weight on the outer leg.

c) The opponent often slips away in front of the chest of the player who steals the ball. In the moment in which he expects

a shoulder kick, he either accelerates or slows down his running. Therefore, the defensive player has no resistance during

the pushing. In such cases, the stealer loses his balance, especially if the pushing is performed when his body weight is on

the leg closer to the player leading the ball. If the body weight is on the leg that is further away from the leader of ball in

the moment of pushing, the forward will not lose his balance even if the forward performs a feint (usually by stopping and

avoiding the collision) and if he, by doing so, does not touch the opponent with his shoulder.

Throw-in

According to the rules of the game, if the entire ball crosses the touchline, either through the air or on the ground, it needs

to be thrown in with a hand exactly at the point where it crossed the touchline.

Rules determine the throw-ins. At the moment of the throw-in, the player taking it must face the field and stand with both

feet on the ground behind a sideline. The rules particularly emphasize that the player taking the throw-in must use both

hands and throw the ball in the field over the top of his head. Therefore, throw-in technique and its performance must be

presented correctly. When performing various kicks with a foot, head or when dribbling, there are various individual

tastes and fantasies during the use, on the other hand, the power of individual fantasy does not have many possibilities in

technical performances of the throw-ins, exactly because of respecting the game rules. When talking about emphasized

restraining rules of the game, I am not trying to say that individual abilities cannot be manifested during the throw-ins.

Strength, explosiveness, readiness for the throw-in, and even imagination to some extent, may have an important role in

taking the throw-ins and contributing to their efficiency. Throwing far in the field, that is a fake throw-in, can surprise

opposing players in the given situations. With a well-planned and skillfully taken throw-in, one team can, by itself, create

favorable situations in the game for some teammates.

Many players and some coaches consider the throw-in to be a side issue, in so much that, for example, a throw-in drill is

hardly ever taken in the field. It is unquestionable that it is not as important as shots on goal or ball kicks in general and

the importance of defense. It is a fact that the throw-in is only one part of soccer technique. Correct technical

performance, diverse and rational tactical use gives us an endless number of such advantages in the game, which should

not be underestimated.

There are even such players who can throw the ball in as far as 40 meters. The ball thrown that far in front of the goal is

often more dangerous than a free kick, because the ball is better controlled by a hand than by a leg.

It needs to be mentioned, among tactical advantages, in the first place, that after throwing the ball in, there is no offside

until the first contact with the ball has been made. Therefore, the players of the team taking the throw-in can even

position themselves in front of the opponent goal itself, without fearing of being in the offside.

These two mentioned points of view emphasize the importance of the throw-in, they have influence on the quality of the

play, on the attacking readiness of the team, and therefore the throw-in must not be neglected. If moves and movements

of the throw-in are performed according to the rules, the team will not be awarded any punishments. In other words, in

case of incorrect throw-ins, the right of throwing in goes to the opposing team again and the ball can be lost recklessly.

Apart from that, the players must acquire the proper rational technique in the interest of following the distance of the

throw-in.

Good players will make the most of all their possibilities and capabilities for the benefit of their team. Beside possibilities,

correct ways of performance technique, and their rational use that the rules give us, also provide us with the basics for a

more useful and rational development of soccer game. In that mutual connection, the throw-in should have its own place

and importance.

Throw-in Technique

Throw-in from a Standing Position

The ball is held with both hands, with fingers spread a little. Fingers should lie loosely on the ball. The ball is held up by

hands opposite to the direction of throwing in. It is correct if thumbs and forefingers are as close as possible. When

beginning with the throw-in movement, stand in a straddle or in a straddle with a step forward, with feet spread about 1-

1.5 of their own length. The selection of a straddle is individual, the straddle with a step aside is more correct for the

performance of loose movement during the throw-in.

The ball is raised above the head and held by loose arms slightly bent in elbows, and then, with a stronger bending in

elbows, we release it behind the head. The trunk performs a strong swing backward over the shoulders, hips and knees at

the same time. The entire body

is strongly bent backward. Even the neck bends backward. From this position, you start the movements needed for the

throw-in. At the same time, while stretching the hand, the hip also stretches and the trunk is pushed forward in the

opposite direction. Swinging of the trunk and hands forward with jerking movements also supports the knees by sudden

stretching.

When beginning with the movement, the body weight should be placed equally on both legs. During the movement itself,

the body weight passes to the foot of the forward leg.

The ball is released with hands over the top of the head. A throw-in distance can be increased if the wrists are used in the

throw-in that is finally followed by arms (Figure 34: Throw-In Technique).

Throwing in from a Run-Up

In order to increase the throw-in distance, it is correct that only the throw-in be linked with the run-up. From a certain

point of view it is even easier to perform these movements. The run-up itself makes the movements looser, if we keep in

mind its execution. Throwing in from a standing position is somewhat shorter because of being fixed to one determined

place. The inertia of the run-up is used for the distance of the throw-in. One main negative thing in throwing in from a

run-up should also be mentioned. When performing the run-up one often makes mistakes. The player taking the throw-in

moves away from the ground using the leg, the action which is, according to the rules, irregular and punishable, and it

ends with a lost ball which is awarded as penalty. Therefore, the unconditional advantage of this way of throwing in can

be ruined by one movement performed incorrectly, which is a result of deceptive moving. However, correct technique can

remove this defect, and therefore the training of throw-ins taken with run-ups is absolutely recommended, exactly

because of its efficiency.

The throw-in technique from a run-up is not much different from the technique of the throw-in from a standing position.

In this way throwing in can be performed with hands, but only from a straddle with a step forward.

This type of the throw-in is taken after having done 6-8 accelerative steps, with the already known technique. While

running, the ball is held naturally with the hands in front of the body, and then while performing the last 1-2 steps we

suddenly jerk up above the head and behind the body.

After having thrown the ball away, and in the middle of a big swing, the body often leans forward even if the player has

not finished his movements. The performance of the throw-in is largely individual. It is important to say that the foot can

be lifted off the ground only when the ball has been released from the hands.

Some players, during the throw-in with a run-up pull their back leg. This movement is not performed incorrectly, but it

may cause a referees' intervention, who consider that such leg pull is incorrect according to soccer rules. That is often

justified because the leg could, for a moment, be easily lifted off the ground during the forward pull.

Throw-in Methodology

The training is performed in the following way:

1. Students (players) should first train a correct way of catching the ball. The ball is placed on the ground and they pick it

up by bending in the illustrated way.

2. Throwing the ball without moving the trunk and legs. A special attention should be paid to correct arm movements,

especially to an intensive use of the wrist. The drill should be performed in pairs. Teammates stand in a distance of about

6-8 meters.

3. Performing all movements without a ball and from a standing position.

4. Performing all movements with a ball and from a standing position.

5. Performing moves, movements after having done a few steps, first with and then without a ball.

6. Performing moves, movements with a ball, after a few running steps.

7. Taking the throw-in from a standing position and after a run-up with set tasks for distance and precision.

Mistakes in the Throw-in from a Standing Position

It is necessary to observe and correct mistakes as much as possible. The efficiency of the throw-in is achieved and raised

when mistakes are corrected, but the already mentioned rules and regulations of the game should also not be forgotten

and neglected because, as we have already mentioned in case of offences, the ball must be given to the opponent.

From the point of view of rules and regulations, the following mistakes may occur:

a) Player is more skilful with one than the other hand. Throw-in with only one hand is incorrect.

b) Incorrect ball release from the hands. It is determined that the ball must be thrown over the head.

c) Player lifts either one or both legs when taking a throw-in, even only for a moment.

d) When taking the throw-in, the player is not facing the inner side of the field.

e) When taking the throw-in, the player stands in the field on the inner edge of the touchline, with one or both feet.

Mistakes in Movement Technique

a) Player (student) holds the ball with hands on each side of the ball.

b) Fingers of the player (student) are almost entirely closed.

c) Some players throw the ball with stiff wrists.

d) Student (player) does not bend his elbows in the beginning of the throw-in, and also he does not bend shoulders, hips

and knees backward enough.

e) Student (player) stands in a too wide straddle.

f) When throwing the ball, the player does not shift his body weight forward, but only throws the ball out of his hands.

g) Shift from a backward into a forward swing is not energetic enough. This mistake is important only when throwing the

ball far away.

h) Work of hands is not harmonized with the work of the trunk and legs, and the student (player) moves some parts of the

body separately and irregularly.

Penalty Kick

Penalty kick is one the most difficult elements in soccer.

Why do we say that it is the most difficult element?

Because the penalty kick can only be taken by players who juggle the ball well and have a precise shot.

Furthermore, in case of overtime, players performing penalty kicks must remain calm and concentrate on the shot. One

mistake and the match is lost.

Penalty kick rules are:

1. Player (student) must not shoot without thinking.

2. Run-up should be neither too long nor too short.

3. Players (students) should run easily after the ball when running up.

4. When running towards the ball, they should look at the ball and the goalkeeper at the same time.

It is a mistake if players (students) look only at the ball when running up.

Goalkeeper's Behavior during the Penalty Kick

1. He must not dive for the ball carelessly.

2. Goalkeeper concentrates on the player (student) kicking the ball and might

estimate the ball's direction on the basis of the player's kicking technique.

3. He dives for the ball only after it had been kicked.

I highly recommend that all players perform penalty kicks in every training session.

Contents

Goalkeeper Technique 13

Development and Play of the Goalkeeper 13

Work (Activity) of the Goalkeeper 14

Physical and Mental Traits Necessary for a Goalkeeper 14

What are These Characteristic Mental Traits? 16

Systematization of Goalkeeper Technique 22

Systematization of Defensive Goalkeeper Technique 22

Division of Attack Goalkeeper Technique 23

Goalkeeper Technique Without the Ball 24

The Elementary Goalkeeper Position 24

Setting the Goalkeeper 24

Goalkeeper Technique With the Ball 26

Catching the Ball 26

Catching a Low Ball 27

Catching the Ball while Keeping the Feet Parallel 27

Movement Technique 27

Movement Training 28

Mistakes which Happen while Catching the Ball 29

Catching the Ball in the Half-Kneeling Position 29

Technique of Catching the Ball in the Half-Kneeling Position 29

Mistakes which Happen when Catching a Ball in the Half-Kneeling Position 30

Catching a Semi-High Ball 30

Technique of Catching Semi-High Balls 30

Training in Catching Semi-High Balls 31

Mistakes in Saving Semi-High Balls 32

Catching High Balls 32

Technique of Catching High Balls 33

Training in Catching High Balls 34

Mistakes in Defending against High Balls 34

Boxing the Ball 35

Boxing Technique 35

Boxing Technique Training 37

Mistakes in Boxing 38

Saving the Goal by Diving 39

Diving Technique 39

Diving for Low, Semi-High and High Balls 46

Diving Training 46

Mistakes in Diving 48

Deflecting the Ball 49

Deflecting Technique 49

Practicing Deflecting 51

Mistakes in Deflecting 51

Saving with the Feet 52

Handling the Ball (Distribution) 52

Technique of Handling the Ball 53

Ball Handling Training 53

Mistakes in Ball Handling 53

Goalkeeper Offensive Technique 54

Throwing the Ball on the Ground and Rolling It on the Ground 54

Rolling Technique 54

Training of Rolling 55

Mistakes in Rolling the Ball 55

Throwing the Ball through the Air 55

Throwing Technique 56

Throwing Training 57

Mistakes in Throwing the Ball 57

Kicking the Ball 58

Kicking Technique 58

Kicking Training 59

Mistakes in Kicking the Ball Out 60

Technique Elements of Soccer Players 65

Leading the Ball 66

Ball Leading Training 66

Use of Different Leading Styles 68

Ball Leading Methodology 68

Mistakes during the Ball Leading 69

Technique of Kicking the Ball with the Inner Side of the Foot 70

Training Methodology 70

Mistakes in Kicking the Ball with the Inner Side of a Foot 71

Technique of Receiving, Technique of Shooting and Methodology 72

Technique of Receiving the Ball with the Sole 72

Technique of Receiving the Ball with the Inner Side of the Foot 72

Technique of Receiving the Ball with the Outer Side of the Foot 72

Training of Receiving the Ball With the Foot 73

Mistakes in Receiving the Ball With the Foot 73

Receiving the Ball with the Heel 74

Technique of Receiving the ball with the Heel 74

Training of Receiving the ball with the Heel 75

Training Methodology 75

Mistakes in Receiving the ball with the Heel 76

Receiving the Ball with the Lower Legs 76

Technique of Receiving the Ball with the Lower Legs 76

Methodology of Receiving the Ball with the Lower Legs 77

Mistakes in Receiving the Ball with the Lower Legs 78

Receiving the Ball with the Upper Leg 79

Technique of Receiving the Ball with the Upper Leg 79

Method of Receiving the Ball with the Upper Leg 85

Mistakes in Receiving the Ball with the Upper Leg 85

Receiving the Ball with the Belly 86

Technique of Receiving the Ball with the Belly 86

Method of Receiving the Ball with the Belly 87

Mistakes in Receiving the Ball with the Belly 87

Receiving the Ball with the Chest 88

Technique of Receiving the Ball with the Chest 88

Method of Receiving the Ball with the Chest 89

Mistakes in Receiving the Ball with the Chest 90

Receiving the Ball with the Head 91

Technique of Receiving the Ball with the Head 92

Method of Receiving the Ball with the Head 92

Methodology 93

Mistakes in Receiving the Ball with the Head 93

Header 94

Selection of the Rebounding Surface 95

Strength of Headers and Strength of Rebounding Surface 96

Classification of Headers 96

Header with the Front Part of the Forehead 97

Header Forward from the Standing Position 97

Technique of a Header Forward from the Standing Position 97

Method of a Header Forward from the Standing Position 98

Header Aside from the Standing Position 99

Technique of a Header Aside from the Standing Position 100

Method of Headers Aside from the Standing Position 100

"Sliding" Header Aside 101

Back Header from the Standing Position 102

Technique of a Back Header from the Standing Position 107

Method of a Back Header from the Standing Position 107

Header During Moving 108

Technique of a Header During Movement 108

Method of a Header During Movement 109

Header in the Air 110

Header from the Jump up with Both Feet 111

Technique of a Header from the Jump up with Both Feet 111

Method of a Header from the Jump up with Both Feet 112

Diving Header 113

Diving Header Technique 113

Diving Header Method 113

Header from a Take-off on one Foot after a Run-up 114

Technique of a Header from a Take-off on one Foot after a Run-up 114

Method of a Header from a Jump up on one Foot 115

Header with the Side of the Forehead 116

Header from Place during Moving 116

Technique of a Header from Place during Moving 117

Method of a Header from Place during Moving 118

Header from the Jump up 118

Technique of a Header from the Jump up 119

Method of a Header from the Jump up 119

Back Header 119

Back Header Technique 120

Passing and Shots 120

Passes on the Ground 120

Mistakes in Passing 121

Passing the Ball through the Air (Curved Balls) 122

Basic Principles of Passing Long and Curved Balls 123

Mistakes in Passing Curved Balls 124

Ball Rotating Backwards 129

Mistakes in Performing the Ball Rotations 129

Shots at the Goal with Balls Moving Through the Air 130

Throwing the Ball over the Head 130

Short Volley Kick 131

Mistakes During the Volley Kick 131

Half Volley 132

Mistakes during the Half Volley 132

Spin Ball 133

Dribbling 134

Preconditions (Abilities) for Dribbling 134

Physical and Mental Preconditions for Dribbling 135

Categorization of Dribbling 136

Body Feints without the Ball 137

Use of a Body Feint in the Game 137

Technique of a Body Feint 138

Dribbling with the Ball 139

Dribbling with the Ball if the Opponent is in Front 140

Simple Pulling of The Ball with the Inner Side of the Foot 140

Methodical Procedure of Pulling the Ball with the Inner Side of the Foot 141

Pulling the Ball with the Inner Instep of a Foot with the Use of One Body Feint 141

Pulling the Ball with the Inner Instep of a Foot with the Use of Two Body Feints 142

Methodical Procedure of Pulling the Ball with the Inner Instep of the Foot with the Use of Two Body Feints 142

Dribbling with Stepping over the Ball 143

Dribbling Method with Stepping over the Ball 144

Pulling the Ball back 144

Methodical Procedure of Pulling the Ball back 145

Dribbling when the Opponent is Positioned behind Our Back 152

Methodical Procedure of Dribbling with the Opponent Positioned

behind Our Back 153

Reception of the Ball with the Feint 154

Method of Receiving the Ball with the Feint 154

Feint with Turning the Body without Receiving the Ball 155

Method of Feint by Turning the Body without Receiving the Ball 155

Ball Feints when the Opponent is next to Us 156

Method of Ball Feints when the Opponent is next to Us 157

Feint with the Leg Swing 158

Methodical Procedure of Feint with the Leg Swing 158

Importance of Dribbling 159

Stealing the Ball 160

Physical and Mental Factors in Stealing the Ball 161

Systematization of Ball Stealing 163

Basic Stealing 163

Basic Stealing Technique 164

Basic Stealing Mistakes 165

Stealing by Slide Tackling 166

Technique of Stealing by Slide Tackling 167

Method of Stealing by Slide Tackling 168

Mistakes in Slide Tackling 169

Stealing the Ball while Jumping forward 169

Pushing 176

Correct Pushing Technique 176

Correct Pushing Method 177

Pushing Mistakes 178

Throw-in 178

Throw-in Technique 179

Throw-in from a Standing Position 179

Throwing in from a Run-Up 180

Throw-in Methodology 181

Mistakes in the Throw-in from a Standing Position 182

Mistakes in Movement Technique 182

Penalty Kick 183

Goalkeeper's Behavior during the Penalty Kick 183

Bibliography

1. Akimov, A.M.: Igra futboljnog vratara, Fiskuljtura i sport, Moskva, 1978.

2. Arestov, J. M. et al..: Futbol, Fiskuljtura i sport, Moskva, 1979.

3. Csanadi, A.: Labdorugas, Tehnika, Strategija, Edzes, Sport Budapest, 1978.

4. prof. Jerkoviæ S: Utjecaj koordinacije na preciznost, Magistarski rad na Fakultetu za

fizièku kulturu, Zagreb, 1980.

5. Palfai, J.: 1. Moderne Trainingsmethoden im Fussball, Verlag Bartels Wernitz KG,

Berlin, 1976.

2. Fiatal Labdarugok Edzese (editors) 1.Zalka Andras 2.Freiner Kalman

3. Thomann Antal 4.Goltl Bela 5.Hargitay Gyorg.

6. Talaga, F.: Pilka nožna-technika, Sport i turistika, Varšava, 1973.

7. Yates, A.Jl.: Abnormalities of psychomotor functions, In:Eysenck, H.J. (Ed)

Handbook of abnormal psychology, Pitman medical, London, 1973.

8. Fiatal Labdarugok Ddzese (Goltl Bela)

9. prof. Miloje Gabrijeliæ: Nogomet, Zagreb, 1964.

10. Ivica-Iko Pavicic, prof.: Nogomet za mlade, Zagreb,1989.

11. Ivica-Iko Pavicic, prof.: Tjelesna priprema športaša, Zagreb, 1998.

12. prof.dr.sc.Radovan Medved: Sportska medicina, Zagreb, 1980.

13. Allen Wade: The principles, methods and technique of a goalkeeper, Football

Association of Great Britain.

14. Bauer, G.: Fussball perfekt:vom Anfanger zum profi.BLV Verlagsgesellschaft,

Munchen, 1976.

15. Donskoj, D.D.: Biomehanika s osnovami sportivnoj tehniki.Izd.Fizikult.i sport,

Moskva, 1971.

16. Weissweiler, H.: Der Fussball -Taktik Training Mannschaft, Verlag Hofman,

Schorndorf, 1974.

BIOGRAPHY

Ivica Iko Pavicic was born on November 11, 1953 in Županja, a town in Eastern Slavonia considered by many the cradle

of Croatian soccer and tennis.

The first soccer ball in Croatia was actually brought to Županja from England in 1880.

Already as a child, Iko showed tendency towards sports, and besides being one of more promising young soccer players,

he was engaged in gymnastics, and as s a champion of the district he participated in the Croatian fishing championship.

He was recreatively engaged in fighting sports, Full contact, and reached black belt 1st day in karate. He dedicated his

entire youth to sports and it is not surprising that he continued his education at

the Faculty of Physical Education in Zagreb and finished it with success.

His longtime engagement with soccer, studying and research of professional literature, after having understood that there

really was not much professional literature on soccer, especially in Croatian, soon induced Iko to try to help numerous

coaches of young players who in various ways tried to plan, work out, organize and perform training sessions with the

youngest players. The result of such consideration, longtime work, research and reading of professional literature, was his

first book "Soccer for Young People" (Zagreb, 1989), that soon became an obligatory textbook at the Faculty of Physical

Education in Zagreb.

Almost everyday changes in sport, new scientific discoveries, and development of soccer do not allow much theorizing but

permanent following and improving. It is also clear why his following book "Physical Preparation of Athletes" (Zagreb,

1998) got such attention from people engaged in sports. Use of new scientific discoveries written in understandable style

has been of big help to coaches and young sportsmen in their work. The recipe is simple and efficient.

The book you are holding in your hands "Goalkeeper Technique, Technique Elements of Soccer Players and

Methodology" is a logical sequence of efforts of an expert, soccer and sport lover to help young people and pass on them

his rich sport and life experience. Therefore, young coaches will be especially grateful to Iko, their mentor and teacher. If

these books help only one of many young players and coaches in succeeding and creating a successful career, the efforts of

the big enthusiast and sportsman will be awarded.

Prof. Zdenko Ilecic