TIPS ON GOAL- KEEPING

This topic is a radical departure from our normal subjects. I decided to write on the qualities of a good goal-keeper because most of my readers are ardent football fans; and goal-keeping is a very crucial part of the round leather game.

Below are some of the qualities of a good goal-keeper:

1. Anyone seeking a career as a goal-keeper should be mindful of the height factor. A good goalkeeper should have a good height because it’s an advantage.

There’re short goalkeepers who have proven to be great, but it’s an obvious fact that height helps a goalkeeper in aerial duels.

A tall goalkeeper could easily intercept goal-bound long balls, especially from dead-ball situations.

2. After height, we look at reflexes. A keeper needs good reflexes to perform well in matches. Shots come from unexpected angles when you least expect them.
3. Good keepers should be well-built. A good physique helps a goalkeeper withstand hard tackles and body contact from rough players.
4. Goalkeepers are expected to be alert. A second’s loss of concentration could result in a goal.
5. In one-on-one situations with on-rushing players, a goalkeeper should be courageous enough to target the ball and know when to dive and prevent the striker from shooting.
6. A goalkeeper should be careful not to cause a foul; since they are usually in the 18-yard box, they could easily commit a penalty.
7. When facing a penalty, a good goalkeeper should watch the ball closely and know where to stop it.
8. Fitness is key for all players, moreso for a keeper. Goalkeepers must learn to train hard, even if alone. In crucial matches that drag into extra time, a goalkeeper’s fitness level would be tasked to cope with the rigours of the game.
9. Leadership. A goalkeeper much organise their defence. This is where leadership is vital. The defenders must communicate well with the goalkeeper at all times to protect the goal area and avoid conceding cheap goals.
10. Penalties. A goalkeeper should learn how to take good penalties because they could be called upon when this is required in crucial matches.