Experienced goalkeepers advise: How to catch a falling ball

A goalkeeper must not only be physically fit and mentally tough, but also a bit of an acrobat. Thanks to this alone, he will be able to handle technically demanding interventions, such as catching a falling ball or the so-called fish. The key to success is regular training of this specific discipline, the mastery of which separates the best goalkeepers from the good ones. Let's look at tips from goalkeepers on how to catch the falling ball safely and effectively so that you don't give your opponent any chance.

Don't underestimate basic techniques

If you want to improve your goalkeeping skills, we recommend that you first work on your stance, footwork and catching the ball while standing . Individual techniques differ, but the main principles remain, so you always have to go after the ball with your hands , which you can do better thanks to high-quality gloves . And then it is necessary to focus on the so-called soft hands , when only after mastering this foundation you can move on to more demanding interventions, such as the goalkeeper's technique of catching falling balls.

Train efficiency, not visual effects

Some goalkeepers are downright famous for their falls and make sure they look good. But be careful that they still remain effective and actually catch the ball. In addition, it is necessary to take this technique as a last resort that will save the situation. And if possible, give priority to less strenuous interventions.

The principles of catching the ball remain the same

As with catching the ball while standing, always think about:

• Stand perpendicular to the shooter and the ball
• Movement against the ball
• The hands that are on the ball first

However, training to catch the ball while falling also includes footwork. So get into the right position, lower your center of gravity and keep moving within the shooting angle. It is ideal to so-called "dance" , that is, to have your weight on your toes, not on your heels, and your first steps must always lead forward.

Falling ball catching phase

Reflection

If the shot flies a long way, take a step forward before bouncing , preferably slightly to the side at an angle of about 30 degrees. It will make your work in the air a lot easier later on. Try to time everything as best as possible, and when the right moment doesn't happen, you can bounce with your closer foot and throw yourself against the ball.

Impact

You should step and land perpendicular to the path of the balloon to get behind it with as much of your body as possible, and it's also safer and less painful than other falls. But also watch out for turning on your stomach or back and burying your face in the ground. It is necessary to land straight on the side and have a constant overview. Otherwise, there is a risk of injury and also the fact that you will lose track of the ball and the movement of other players.

Hands first

Instincts advise you to cushion the fall with your hands, but every experienced goalkeeper knows that it is exactly the opposite. You must not stop the fall with elbows or knees , and his hands from catching the ball first. Only then does he concentrate on the right impact, which he can eventually dampen with the held ball.

In some situations, the ball cannot be caught. But you should at least try to knock him out , either with one or two hands, similar to a common intervention called boxing. Alternatively, the ball is kicked with the lower hand that is closer to the flying ball.

Catching the ball on the ground

Catching a low ball in the fall is also possible, with the only difference that you are not trying to make an arc, but to get to the ground as soon as possible . Otherwise, you are facing forward again, and in order not to injure yourself and claim a successful intervention, you must land straight on your side, nowhere else. You then catch the ball between your hands and the ground.

High and semi-high ball