Soccer Drills and Practice Plans for your Youth Soccer Teams
The correct way to strike the ball depends on what you are trying to accomplish. If you are trying to pass it to teammate that is within close range, you want to control the ball, so the instep of the foot is usually the best option. If you are trying to move the ball a long distance or strike it with authority, the laces would be best.
Passing- Short passes should be struck with the instep because it allows for the most control of the ball. Long elevated passes like crosses or switching the field should be struck with the laces, as it is easier to get the ball into the air.
Shooting-When shooting, you usually want to get a little something on it and movement is a good thing. Straight flat shots get picked off easily by the goalie. Therefore, the laces or the out step of the foot are preferable because you can strike the ball hardest and in the case of an out step shot the ball will break away from the goaltender.
Trapping- The instep is the best place to trap the ball using the foot, and your leg should absorb the impact of the ball like a pendulum.
Volleys- Instep or laces can both be used, just make sure you make good contact with the ball, rather than having it deflect weakly of your leg . The instep will obviously give you a little more control.
| Category: Soccer Skills |
