Goal Keeping Diving And Flop Techniques

Goal keeping diving and flop techniques are a practice of defensive goal keeping. Being a soccer goal keeper has its challenges. Keeping yourself nimble and sprain and strain free is a challenge when facing diving as a goal keeper. This article will provide good strategies when playing goal keeper that include the need to dove or flop.

1. When playing goal keeper in soccer you will face many scenarios. Being on your toes and alert to the game in front of you is vital in successful diving or flopping. Neither is always needed if the play unfolds to your advantage. But in many cases soccer is a bang-bang sport and things happen or turn around in a matter of moments.
2. When attacking offenders are in the area or approaching your goal you need to think quickly. You should always maintain your balance by holding your arms out to your side. Maintain your presence and readiness by keeping the legs shoulder width apart. Keep yourself on the balls of your feet, as well. This is the best posture for diving or flopping as a goal keeper.
3. The best dive technique puts the goal keeper in control. In the position above you are ready to dive either left or right. An initial flop attempt or thought may come into play if the soccer ball is far out in front of the offender where you can charge and flop onto the ground in front of the ball. Do this maneuver as if you were to slide into a base but keep your body perpendicular to the playing field.
4. If a dive is needed it is best to leave your feet in the direction of the shot. Extend the arms out and open the hands wide. You want to catch the ball and then cradle it as you impact the ground to avoid a follow-up shot. Be sure to brace your impact as much as possible or roll onto the hip. This technique is best in stopping a shot to either the left or right, whether airborne or not.
5. Other dives are from the knees. This is where the goal keeper will drop to his knees as the ball approaches and catch it in his hands, again cradling the ball to the ground. This method works best when the offender and goal keeper are in close proximity.