A goalkeeper can save themselves a lot of trouble if they get their basic positioning and improve their handling techniques.

If a goalkeeper gets in the right position, very often there is no need to dive and make difficult saves. Their positioning will make it easier for them to make simple saves. A goalkeepers positioning is all about angles and distances. You will still see top goalkeepers making marks on the 6 yard box. They do this so they have reference points to assist them with their shot stopping angles. They know if they can position themselves between between their reference points and the ball, they will be in a good position, getting themselves between the ball and the center of the goal. The other consideration for goalkeepers is the distance they place themselves between the goal and the ball. Too far back and they leave too much of the goal to aim for, too close and they can get easily chipped. Therefore, the two most important considerations for the goalkeeper when working on their positions are:

• Positioning / angles - get themselves between the ball and the centre of the goal
• Distance - close enough to narrow the angle of the shot, but not too close as to be easily chipped and not too far away so that the goal is made bigger for the shooter

The following graphic indicates good goalkeeping positions:

Basic Handling Techniques

If a goalkeeper adopts a good goalkeeping positioning, then they will often have to deal with shots that are directly at them. They will then need a good understanding of basic shot stopping techniques. It is important that the goalkeeper has a good shot stopping position.

Animated drills to improve basic handling techniques:

• Dealing with low shots
• Forming the K barrier
• Clock coaching handling drill
• Battle of the goalkeepers
• Catching techniques

Basic Shot Stopping Position: Starting position weight should be on the balls of the feet Feet should be shoulder-width apart Hands should be at waist height outside the line of the body Palms of the hands open Head should be slightly forward and steady at all times