GOALKEEPERS IN SOCCER

The universal love for soccer is indisputable. This game has witnessed and been through sea of changes over the centuries. Earliest account of players’ position in soccer teams date back to 1504. A lot positions have been altered since then as the game evolved over a period of time, some positions have been created while few have been eliminated, though the basic nature of the game remains standard where all the field players from both the teams have to attack and defend. Despite all the transitions, one position has been constant and been there since the inception of the game and that is of a goalkeeper.
A goalkeeper is positioned between the goal posts and has to defend the offenders from scoring a goal, they are also known as the last line of defense. Goalkeeper is the only position in the game of soccer where using hand is permissible. Like the game itself this position has also evolved over the years. Initially goalkeepers had to limit themselves close to the goal post. In 20th century an argentenian goal keeper pioneered new techniques and styles which made the role more dynamic in nature. He was the first one to move out of the penalty area to defend a goal shot, use a goal kick to attack and wearing gloves was also initiated by him. In soccer the goalkeeper is allowed to touch the ball with any part of the body including hands however; few rules were revisited in 1992, where a mandate was given that a goalkeeper will not be able to handle the ball with hands if a team mate back passes the ball. Consequently goalkeepers had to work on the techniques of managing the ball with legs.
Ideally if squad number system is not being used, number 1 jersey is allotted to the goalkeeper, though there have been exceptions in FIFA world cup 1978 and 1982. They are also required to wear jersey’s that are distinctive and are different from the rest of the team. Typically a goalkeeper’s position has the longest playing career in soccer and they are also essentially tall or the tallest players in the team.
Needless to mention that goalkeepers play a very vital role in the game of soccer, they are no more confined to the penalty area and can get involved in the game anywhere in the pitch. Many notable goalkeepers have scored goals for their teams during a corner or a free kick. A good and a strong goalkeeper can be very reassuring for the rest of the members. Team players can concentrate better on the game knowing that it’s difficult for the offenders to score a goal against the goalkeeper who is standing tall (literally and figuratively) guarding the post.
For quality soccer equipment for goalkeepers, visit wsports.com.