Academy Training - 12/04/2010

Goalkeeping Training Compilation - Ben Bieber

Crossing and Reflex Drill

This is a drill that will work the goalkeepers aerial ability and their reflexes. It's a simple drill that can be done at differing levels of intensity depending on the level of difficulty required.



One server starts at the edge of the 18 yard box to the side of the goal and the other server starts near the penalty spot. The server on the 18 yard box throws a high ball for the keeper to attack and catch at the highest point possible. The keeper catches the ball and throws it to the side and is then one on one with the second server who kicks the ball from his hands toward the goal not trying to score but testing the keeper.

Key points:
Cross:
- Catch the cross at it's highest point possible
- Land on your toes after catching the cross
- Make sure you get the correct knee up to protect yourself as you collect the cross (the knee should be pointing towards the direction of the oncoming players challenging you for the cross)
One on one:
- Make sure when the shot comes in the keeper is set and in the ready position
- If possible catch the ball, if not try and clear the ball to the wings and not back into play where you could give up an easy rebound goal
- Don't fall back onto your butt, try to attack the ball.

Training Drills #1

Training Drills - Ben Bieber:
I am the goalkeeper in this video. I learnt this drill at VfB Stuttgart in Germany and I modified it slightly.

Equipment:
- 2 hurdles (1 small one, 1 big one)
- Footballs




The drill is set up with two hurdles placed just in front of the middle of the goal. The smaller hurdle is placed in front of the bigger hurdle and the server stands just behind the penalty spot and halfway between the hurdles and the post. The goalkeeper jumps over both hurdles making sure he lands on his toes and in the ready position and when he has landed the server either kicks or throws a ball towards the corner of the goal for the goalkeeper to make a save. The aim here is not for the server to score but for the goalkeeper to be tested into making a save. I suggest to start out by throwing the ball to the keeper for him to catch it and then progress to kicking once you get into a proper rhythm.

Key Points:

- Try and catch as many balls as possible as it is always better to hold a shot rather than give up a corner or a rebound.
- Push off with the correct leg. (There will be an article about this in future)
- Make sure to power step.
- Landing after the second hurdle should always be in the ready position, this makes it easy to quickly dive for the shot.
- Try and get both hands to the ball unless the ball is in the top corner.