FineSoccer Kids 56

Welcome to the FineSoccer Kids Newsletter.  Today’s subject deals with quick free kicks.

When the ref blows his whistle for a foul or for any reason for that matter, players tend to relax and lose focus.  If it’s an offside call, they frequently will look over to the assistant referee as if to question him or will look at a teammate to see what happened.  Smart teams and players are the ones who will take advantage of this situation.

If your team is awarded a direct or indirect kick, the first thing to do is to see if you can play it quickly before the opponent is ready.  The way to do this is to put the ball down and determine if you can catch the team by putting the ball in play right away.  If the opponents have their backs turned or are not focused right away, this is a great way to take advantage of the situation within the laws of the game.  Unfortunately, too many players (and coaches) automatically start screaming for the defense to get back 10 yards but when this is done, it gives the opponent time to set up.  Many times it’s advantageous for a team to take the quick free kick without bothering with the 10 yards.  Just look to put it down and play it to an open player.  The thing to remember is to play the ball quickly BUT not to rush it.  In other words, don’t play it to a player who isn’t ready for the ball just because he is open.  Make sure your team is prepared to play quickly and they will be more successful.

Likewise, it’s important that your team not “switch off” when they hear a whistle against them, as this will allow an opponent to catch you with a quick free kick before you are ready.  Usually, if one player reminds everyone to get back and face the ball as soon as the whistle is blown it will take care of any problems that might arise.

The team that is better disciplined when the whistle blows for direct and indirect kicks are usually going to be more successful so, when the next time you are playing and you hear the whistle blow, think about what you need to do to take advantage of the situation (within the laws of the game)

Any questions, comments or suggestions should be sent to kidscomments@finesoccer.com or they can be posted on the FineSoccer Forum at http://finesoccer.net

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Have a great day!

Lawrence