CONTROL SHOOTING PASSING DRIBBLING TURNING HEADING CREATE SPACE INDIVIDUAL DEFENDING SUPPORT PLAY GOALKEEPING CROSSING TACKLING THE THROW IN ATTACKING SET PLAYS DEFENDING SET PLAYS THE FREE KICK

CLEARING THE BACK PASS I

Change of Role

Since the change of rule that states that goalkeepers cannot handle the ball from a back pass by a team mate - then the role of the player who is the last line of defence has changed.

Today a goalkeeper has to be better equipped with his feet than ever before, and in fact it has been noticeable (particularly in the Premiership) that some have become very skilful.

Barthez (Manchester United) Westerield (Liverpool) and Martyn (Leeds) readily spring to mind as good kickers of the ball, - and to develop that expertise they have had to work on the training ground.

In many clubs goalkeepers are encouraged to play outfield roles in 5-a-side games, and to also work at skill practices with the other members of the squad.

But what about the specialised practices that are needed to develop the first time clearance for distance - the one that they are regularly called on to use in matches?

CLEARLY PRACTICE AND REPITITION IS IMPORTANT

Practice 1

G = Goalkeeper
A = Server
B + C = Markers for (G)

In practice 1 the ball is served towards the 6-yard box by a server (A).

1. He starts by playing the ball along the ground and goalkeeper (G) has to come out and clear for distance and if possible aim towards (B) and (C) who act as markers for the clearance.

2. If (G) is right footed he should feel more comfortable clearing the service from (A1) to (A2) and (A3).

3. From (A4) and (A5)'s serve he will have to move his feet quickly to adjust his position if he intends using his right foot. BUT IT IS BETTER IF HE CAN USE HIS LEFT FOOT - and practice is for improving, so (G) should be made to use his left foot in practice sessions.

4. Similarly for the serve from (A6) - although if he is uncertain (G) should clear over the touchline (marked 1) for safety.

Practice 2

1. So as (A1) releases the ball back (F1) chases in to make (G) speed up his clearance.

2. Each server must try to get the correct weight on the back pass to favour the goalkeeper - although the forwards (F) must try and block the clearance when possible.

3. A key issue in both practices is that the goalkeeper should keep his eye on the ball until he has made contact. This is an important point, as clearing the ball from the danger area is his first concern. Dealing with the accuracy develops with the practice.