Football/Soccer Session (Beginner): Goalkeeper W3 Positioning

Positioning 1 (15 mins)

Organization

Set up as shown in the diagram.

The shots should be low-driven and across the 6-yard box. The player should be arms length away from the front point in order to be able to cover it if there is a shot there but not over-committed that they can not get to the back post if the ball is crossed or passed. Use techniques from collapse dives to make the stop.

10 reps from each point. 3 sets on each side

Coaching Points

Collapse Dive

When the goalkeeper cannot get their body behind the flight of the ball, these dives are normally below hip height and to the goalkeeper’s side and close to their legs. They simply collapse to the side and the hands are positioned behind and on top of the ball and using the ground to make the catch/save

Positioning 3 (15 mins)

Organization

Balls are set up as shown. Working off angles A & B to begin shots should be taken to the near post so the player can understand positioning in order to cover the front post. The same from point C, making sure we are in line with the ball and not to over-commit to our front post. From point D The shots should be low driven and across the 6-yard box. the player should be arms length away from the front point in order to be able to cover it if there is a shot there but not over committed that they can not get to the back post if the ball is crossed or passed. 

5 reps from each point. 2 sets

Factors to consider 

Constantly adjust their position in relation to the sideways or backward/forward movement of the ball.

Be in line with the ball

Once in line, plant their feet and be balanced when the attacker is in possession and in a position to shoot

Get on their feet quickly again after saving the shot and be ready for the next one!

Part 2

When an attacker’s through on goal in a 1v1, the goalkeeper should also:

Move along the line to the ball if it’s outside the playing distance of the attacker, and as fast as possible.

Once the keeper has closed down the attacker, they should slow to a couple of arms’ lengths away and force the shooter to make a decision. Slowing down makes it easier to react, and makes it harder for the attacker to dribble around the goalkeeper.