There are times, especially in a crowded area, when a goalkeeper
is under so much pressure, he simply cannot catch the ball.
In certain circumstances he therefore has to punch the ball
with his fist - even though there could be distinct disadvantages
once he has made contact with his fist.
But under pressure he often has to clear the best way he can
and so punching the ball, like catching, needs practice.
The technique requires a jump off one foot and for starters
the 1st practice requires careful instruction.
The coach lobs the ball into the
air around 6 - 10 metres away from the goalkeeper.
(a) The goalkeeper, keeps his eyes on the ball all the time
as he approaches the ball (figure 1)
The goalkeeper approaches the ball taking off the front foot
and using the other leg to achieve the required height.
On reaching the ball the two arms
and clenched fists come together elbows slightly bent (figure
2), and then straighten out to put strength into the punch once
contact is made with the ball (figure 3).
FOR YOUNG PLAYERS THE TECHNIQUE OF THE
JUMP AND PUNCH CAN BE PRACTISED FIRST WITHOUT THE BALL, PLAYERS
DEVELOPING THE LEAP AND ARM MOVEMENTS UNTIL THEY ARE CONFIDENT
ENOUGH TO PROGRESS.
When the ball is introduced they
can work in pairs or three's taking it in turn to serve and
punch - coaches instructing in their direction the ball should
be fisted.
Another early route is for goalkeepers to
start using a ball suspended from a stanchion (see figure 4).
The key issues are to develop the timing of the jump. In
figure 4 the ball will be swinging and it is up to the goalkeeper
to time the jump to ensure he can punch the ball, preferably
at his highest point!
Opposition can be brought in once the coach
is satisfied the correct technique has been achieved by the
goalkeeper. In figure 5 the coach (C) lobs the ball into the
area (B) and (A) are attackers and they try and lead the ball
into goal.
(G) goalkeeper has to punch the ball away for safety - not
dropping in the danger area - and coaches can set target points.
There are times, especially in a crowded area, when a goalkeeper
is under so much pressure, he simply cannot catch the ball.
