Hello
My name is Andrew. I play soccer for an elite squad. I have
problems when shooting at goal I always seem to be shooting over the
goals. If I actually shoot low I don't seem to get enough power behind it. I also have problems crossing the ball like its supposed to be crossed.
Andrew
Andrew,
Lets start with the fact that you have a better chance of scoring when the
ball is 'on target' than when it is off target. Second, you will not
receive 'extra points' for the power in which the ball crosses the goal
line. You need only to get the ball across the line and under the bar in
order to score a goal.
So lets begin with your first stage: At your next practice and every day
after that (using your ball and a wall if necessary I want you to use the
"Self-talk" approach that I have presented to the soccer community.
Begin by memorizing these three 'buzzwords': PUSH - PEEK - PLACE!
Now close your eyes and see yourself in action (visualize) yourself doing
the following:
PUSH the ball slightly in front of you - during your dribble.
PEEK to see the net in back of the goal - or the space beside/over the
goalkeeper.
Avoid focusing on the goalkeeper - find the spaces and the net!
'See' the ball go into the space and into the net - make the GK
a
non factor.
PLACE the ball (in your mind) over the goal line and under the cross bar
for a score!
Repeat this 'visualizing' as often as possible. This method is currently
used by many international athletes who realize that the body can better
achieve what the mind has rehearsed. See yourself 'scoring' on every
single attempt. You may want to say the buzz words out loud while your
eyes are closed.
Next, find a wall and outline a goal on it - start practicing by...
PUSHING the ball slightly in front of you...PEEKING to see the space where
you will PLACE the ball. Then PLACE the ball at the exact spot that you
decided to 'hit.' Be sure to say the words out loud - this will help tell
your body parts 'what to do.'
Then go to your next practice and repeat the sequence -over and over
again. Here you may want to say the words in your mind rather than out
loud (teammates may laugh at what you are doing). I promise they will
stop laughing once you start PLACING the ball in the back of the net
during the league games.
Get back to me in a few months when I will give you some 'pointers' on
the placement of your "Plant foot" to keep the ball low!
As for your dilemma on crossing the ball... Using the same
'buzzwords-visualizing and practice' introduced earlier here is what will
improve your 'crossing.'
PUSH the ball toward the near post - this will put your body into proper
position
PEEK to see your intended (player, space or target)
PLACE the ball there!
With lots and lots of practice - you will succeed because the technique of
the kick is basically the same in each instance - except you need to place
the ball low into the goal and high on the cross!
Please get back to me - in the next two months - but, only if the ball
keeps flying across the bar.
Your Internet coach,
Karl Dewazien
