Distribution is one of the most important aspects of modern goalkeeping. The ability to quickly and accurately distribute the ball can set the pace of the game, launch counterattacks, and help maintain possession. There are several methods goalkeepers use to distribute the ball, each with its own advantages and disadvantages depending on the game situation. In this post, we’ll analyze four common types of distribution: rolling the ball, throwing the ball, kicking off the ground, and punting/side volleys.
This is often the safest and most controlled form of distribution for a goalkeeper. This method is typically used when the goalkeeper has ample time and space to assess the field and wants to play the ball short to a defender or midfielder. By rolling the ball, the goalkeeper keeps the distribution grounded, making it easier for teammates to control, especially in situations where the opposing team is pressing. It also helps maintain possession by reducing the risk of turnovers caused by inaccurate or rushed long passes.
However, rolling the ball has its drawbacks. It’s a slower form of distribution, given the friction of the ground and the ball, and can give the opposition time to reorganize defensively. Additionally, because the ball stays on the ground, it can be intercepted if an opponent is quick to close down the receiving player. As such, rolling the ball is best used in situations where there is little distance to cover with the roll and the goalkeeper’s team is looking to build possession from the back.
This type of distribution offers a middle ground between rolling and kicking the ball. A well-executed throw can cover a larger distance than a roll, allowing goalkeepers to distribute the ball to players positioned farther up the field. It is particularly effective for starting counterattacks, as it allows for quick, precise distribution that can bypass an opponent’s midfield line. Throws can be performed with varying techniques—overhand, sidearm, or even a javelin-style throw—depending on the distance and the trajectory needed.
The main advantage of throwing the ball is its accuracy. Unlike kicking the ball, which can be affected by wind, bounce, or spin, throwing offers the goalkeeper much greater control over the placement. However, the drawback is that throws often don't go as far as punts or kicks off the ground which can be limiting. Additionally, if the goalkeeper doesn’t have a strong arm, throwing may not reach players positioned further up the field, limiting distribution options to nearby teammates. One of the best way to improve your arm strength is utilizing proper training equipment and following an effective strength training program.
Every goalkeeper loves a good ping out to their teammate. Goalkeepers utilizing their feet to maintain possession or spring counter attacks is a growing necessity at the goalkeeping position. This method allows the goalkeeper to distribute the ball over long or short distances, making it ideal for reaching attackers or bypassing the opposition’s pressing midfield. The technique involved in kicking off the ground can vary depending on the desired outcome—whether it’s a powerful drive down the field or a more targeted pass to a specific teammate. A well-placed goal kick can put the opposition under pressure instantly.
However, kicking off the ground has its challenges. It requires precise technique to ensure accuracy and distance, and even the slightest mishit can result in the ball going out of bounds or being intercepted by the opposition. Wind conditions or uneven playing surfaces can also affect the trajectory of the ball. While kicking off the ground can be an effective way to launch counterattacks, it’s riskier than shorter, controlled forms of distribution like rolling or throwing.
There are a number of different ways to boom the ball down the field out of your hands. These techniques are used when the goalkeeper wants to quickly transition the ball from defense to attack, often bypassing several lines of opposition. A punt involves kicking the ball out of the hands with a powerful strike, typically aiming for an attacking player positioned further up the field. A dropkick is similar except you allow the ball to hit the ground first before striking it. A side volley is a more modern goalkeeping technique, in which the ball is struck with a sideways swing of the leg, allowing for a lower trajectory and precision while still covering long distances. This type of distribution requires a lot of flexibility.
The major benefit of these types of distribution is the speed at which the ball is delivered. Both methods can cover significant ground quickly, which is ideal for fast counterattacks. However, punts can be harder to control, often resulting in 50-50 challenges for the receiving player. Side volleys, while more accurate than punts, require a high level of technical skill to execute consistently. Dropkicks can also be difficult to master. All methods carry the risk of losing possession, as long balls can be easily intercepted if the target player is not positioned well or marked tightly by the opposition.
Each method of distribution serves a unique purpose and comes with its own set of advantages and drawbacks. The key to effective distribution lies in the goalkeeper's ability to assess the situation, understand their team's strategy, and choose the right method accordingly. Developing proficiency in all four techniques will allow goalkeepers to dictate the tempo of the game and provide their team with valuable opportunities to maintain possession or launch attacks.
Head over to our Amazon Storefront to see all of our BEST goalkeeping recommendations for both on and off the field. You can also head over to our online shop to see our entire line of goalkeeper gloves, apparel, and FREE resources. Be sure to follow us on all of our social media pages: Facebook, Twitter, TikTok, Instagram, Pinterest, and YouTube.
Comments