Countless times you’ve heard a coach say “Soccer is a game of keep away, not kick ball”. I think this is one of the most important concepts of soccer tactics – ball control/possession.
Occasionally I’ll watch a youth soccer game from the “cheering” side rather than the “player/coaching” side of the field. Often a player will run up and blast the ball down the field as the crowd screams approval ---- a home run in kick ball but not in soccer. Most of the time, the other team gains possession of the ball which increases their chances of winning the game.
How do we become good at keep away? Here are some suggestions as they relate to micro-tactics – the small game within the game itself.
If you happen to be the first player to get to the ball (first attacker), bring the ball under your control (good 1st touch) and shield it with your body (if necessary). Dribbling is your best option to advance the ball when there is no pressure from an opponent. Therefore, don't pass the ball unless you are challenged by an opponent. Here are 3 supporting reasons:
- If soccer was just a game of keep away (no goals), it would be crazy to pass the ball if you were not challenged by an opponent.
- Dribbling can be the best method of ball possession. Passing causes temporary loss of possession until the ball gets to a teammate.
- Dribbling will eventually draw an opponent (1st defender). This creates better opportunities to make attacking passes and score.
OK, I have the ball and I'm challenged by an opponent --- now what???
- Be a ball hog. Hey – you’re good --- go for it!!! If it works, you just created chaos for the other team.
- Make an attacking (forward) pass to a teammate.
- Make a safe (square or backward) pass to a supporting teammate.
In Summary - Just remember real soccer is a game of keep away with a purpose; that is, SCORE. It’s not much different than the game you use to play when you were very young.
Video Clip
Shown here is the Spanish National Team playing keep away during a real match. What a finish!!!