Amal 5 Power football

Dead ball situations have become a big part of football, especially since the introduction of certain rules. And none so important than the direct free kick in front of the goal. As we have all seen, it takes great technique to be able to get the ball up and over or around the defending wall with sufficient pace to beat the goalkeeper.

The key to where best to place the ball is governed by the goalies position. Look at where the goalkeeper is standing before you decide where you are going to aim the ball. To achieve swerve and pace, approach the ball at an angle and cut across the side of the ball with the instep of your boot.

If you need height, lean back slightly and try to bend the ball around and over the last defender in the wall. For power or to keep the ball low you must lean slightly forward and over the ball.If the freekick is slightly right of the goal, the freekick is better taken by a left footed player and vice versa if the kick is to the left of the goal.

This will enable them to bend the ball around better and into the corner, where the 'keeper doesn't like it. You must be prepared for the defender who will jump as you kick, maybe you might keep the shot low to deceive him! For indirect free kicks, set up a short pass if you intend having a shot at goal. Again, be prepared for the closing down of your shot by the nearest defender.

Many hours are set aside in professional training, devoted to dead ball situations. As with many things... practise makes perfect.