Soccer Instructional Article

Soccer Tips on Blocking

Soccer is played with two teams of 11 players each. It is one of the most fun and exciting games to watch and is played worldwide. The object of the game is to try to score the most goals. The game originally came from England and has become extremely popularity around the world. The ball is moved only with the players’ feet and can't be touched with their hands (except by the goal keeper). Usually, the ball is passed with the feet from player to player, until one manages to kick it into the goal.

When you watch and/or play soccer, you learn fast that defense of the ball is the secret to winning. Coaches strategize ways to get the team to work together to defend the goal against the ball, so the opposing team can't score.

Most coaches will get team members to work on defense individually as well as working as a team to keep the ball out of the goal. There are two main ways to block the ball: blocking and tackling on the side.

The slide tackle is banned by some youth soccer teams because it is very dangerous. With a slide tackle, you slide into your opponent to get the ball away from your opponent’s feet. It should only be a last resort because it can hurt both you and the other player.

With wet or muddy grass, you may have less chance of injury if you do a slide tackle. You should only use the lower part of your body to slide tackle, otherwise you will probably injure yourself. Remember that you should try to not kick or trip your opponent in any way.

Blocking by the goal keeper is used to knock the ball away with his hands or body. It is a safe way to block the ball without injury. The goal keeper is able to use his hands and arms to block in the goal area. He is the only player that is allowed to use his hands and arms. Other players are prohibited from using their hands but can use any other part of their body to move or block the ball.

Remember that it is against the rules to impede your opponent from playing, so blocking or slide tackling should be done very carefully. If you're too obvious, you will be penalized with a penalty kick for the other team, which will essentially give your opposing team a point.

You can use your body to shield the ball from other players without direct contact. This helps you keep possession of the ball, and is a safer way to defend the ball.

These and other tactics should be always be practiced before you implement them on the field. Always consult your coach before trying any new maneuvers to make sure you are doing them correctly.