Because you are reading this piece, you obviously want to learn more about the game of football or improve your current skills. The information that follows will aid you in learning the skills of the game. When you read on, both you and your team will benefit from your enhanced skills.
After passing the ball, do not relax and assume you’re done with a play. Try to position yourself where you can help the player with the ball. Good players pass the ball again if needing help.
If there is a lot of action on the side of the playing field, do what you can to get the ball to an unguarded player. They’ll have a second or two before defenders are near them.
Always be seeking out methods of surprising the opposing team. A good opponent will quickly spot your tricks and predict your next movements if you repeat similar maneuvers. Keep the other team on their toes by making unexpected but effective moves, like kicking the ball behind you, when you are in danger of losing the ball.
Throw off a defender by dribbling opposite of your intended direction. As the defender follow you, switch sides and go the other way. You can easily get around a defender this way.
To keep the other team guessing, cross the ball in exactly the same pattern for a few plays. The opposing team will recognize what you are doing and be ready for your movement. You can then surprise the opposite team and buy a few seconds by crossing the ball in the other direction or by not crossing at all.
Keep in mind that football involves playing with a team. Don’t become selfish or forget this while playing. Being a self-centered player will not benefit the team and will not benefit you either. Instead, concentrate on the team. When you make personal sacrifices you will succeed.
Talk about strategies with teammates. All teammates should know when the teammate dribbling the ball is going to cross over, allowing teammates to be in the right area to receive the ball. For instance, you could cross each ball towards the right during a couple of plays, and the third time go to the left.
If you are at center-field, watch what is happening at both ends of the field. You ought to prepare yourself to receive from one end and send the ball to the other at a moment’s notice. You need to be aware of who is open and where defendants are all the time.
As with so many things, good communication is a must in the game of football. Talking to your teammates on the field during the game can help you all to work together as a team. Communication is crucial for all football teams, especially professional ones, because football is not a one-man team. Without proper communication, good teamwork cannot occur, and teamwork is crucial to winning.
Now is the time to put your football smarts to work. You have read some very helpful advice, and now you can use that on the playing field. Consider what you know and keep learning as you go. Remember to enjoy yourself as well!