Are Soccer Players Losing the Art of Shielding?

Either it is not being taught by coaches much anymore or players choose to ignore it, but players seem to shy away from shielding the ball from a defender. Shielding the ball in other words is putting your body between the ball and the defender. Not only does shielding help the team with the ball maintain possession, when used right can actually create opportunity for you.

Case in point was the play Josie Altidore made yesterday in the USA Men's huge win over Spain. The ball was played into Altidore and he was able to shield the ball from the Spanish defender and feel his presence on his back. Not only did he shield him beautifully, but he spun on him as well, creating shooting space for himself. The rest is history. He put a strong shot on goal beating the goalkeeper and giving the USA team a 1-0 lead. This first half lead turned into a 2-0 win....one of the biggest wins in quite awhile for the men's soccer team.

It all started with a perfect job of shielding the ball. My suggestion to soccer coaches is to keep working with your players on shielding the ball...it will earn you more possession and in some instances it will earn you a huge win!

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Have a great day!

Gary
www.soccerandspeedcoach.com