| If you want to become a good soccer goalie, you will | | | | opposite direction of the planting foot than it is to |
| have to learn how to read the opposition. The best | | | | shoot in the same direction as the planting foot. Use |
| Soccer goalkeepers in the world have an excellent | | | | this to your advantage. Take notice of where the |
| ability to know what the opposition is going to do | | | | planting foot (the foot that isn't shooting the ball) is |
| with the ball before they do it. This article is focused | | | | directed. Favour this side. |
| on reading an opposing player when they are about | | | | 3) Watch their shooting foot. |
| to shoot the Soccer ball. | | | | If possible you should try to take a look at the |
| There are several things you can look at to "read" | | | | shooters "shooting" foot. Based on how it is placed |
| your opposition and get a few steps ahead of them: | | | | (ex. using the inside, outside, or instep of the boot), |
| 1) Watch their eyes. | | | | you can come to a better conclusion of where the |
| Most players will look at the spot they want to shoot | | | | shot is going to go. If it's with the inside of the foot, |
| the ball, before they release the shot. Obviously, it's | | | | he/she is probably trying to curl it around you to |
| easier to place a shot if you know where you are | | | | either the left or the right side of the goal; likewise |
| shooting. Use this to your advantage, realize where | | | | with the outside of the foot, except it will be the |
| the shooter is looking and favour this side. Nine times | | | | opposite (coming across their body). If they are using |
| out of ten they are going to that spot. However, | | | | the instep, most likely it is going to be a straight shot |
| you must be aware of tricky players who may try | | | | with more power, so be prepared. |
| to use this to their advantage and trick you into | | | | I realize this is a lot to look at before someone takes |
| going one way. | | | | a shot, but with enough practice and constantly |
| 2) Watch their planting foot. | | | | reminding yourself you can soon use these valuable |
| If you look at the planting foot at the shooter, it will | | | | tips to your advantage. Always be two steps ahead |
| usually point to their desired target. It is much more | | | | of the opposition. This ability will help you on your |
| difficult to shoot the ball across your body in the | | | | journey to Become a Good Soccer Goalie. |