TOPIC / THEME - Footwork over short and long distance, involving handling

DESCRIPTION OF PRACTICE (TECHNIQUE / SKILL)

The servers throw a ball to each goalkeeper simultaneously.

Once the goalkeepers catch the ball they throw it back to the same server and then change places with each other.

Once the coach is happy with the movement of the goalkeepers over a short distance he changes the exercise to movement over longer distance.

ORGANISATION:

Four cones, two positioned 4m apart and a further two positioned 8m apart.

Two goalkeepers standing one in front and one behind the cones.

Two servers stand approx 5m in front facing each goalkeeper with a ball in their hands.

KEY FACTORS:

Over the short distance (maximum 4m) the goalkeeper should use small side-steps, this allows him to get into the set position as quickly as possible.

He must face outwards to keep eye contact with the ball.

His feet should not be touching each other while moving, this might cause the goalkeeper to trip up.

Over the longer distance (any distance over 4m) the goalkeeper should use “lift and lay” steps to cover the ground as quickly as possible.

Over the last couple of steps the goalkeeper must revert back to the side-steps, to regain balance and get back into the set position.

Practical Coaching

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