using goalkeepers

The position of goalkeeper brings a new set of problems for the youth coach. Because of the specific technical requirements of the position there is a strong attraction to training the goalkeeper outside of the rest of the teams training. This can result in isolated, soccer strange, activities.

This section will examine some of the effects that occur when goalkeepers are included in small sided games at practices. Their use is an important step in development, after all goalkeepers are an integral part of 7v7 and 8v8, the larger small sided games. However, simply adding a goalkeeper to the smaller games without taking into account the effects can lead to conflicting tasks, miscommunication and have an adverse effect on what is being learned.

Point of departure
tasks and responsibilities

The diagram on the right shows the basic 4v4 game. The diamond shape, made up of the four positions is evident. These positions occur due to the tasks and responsibilities required by the principles of play. With the orange sweeper coming out with the ball all eight players have a clear idea of what is expected. Experienced players will know what their and their teammates responsibilities are.

This diagram shows the same numbers situation but with goalkeepers included. Since the numbers haven't changed the GK's need to take someone's place and that would naturally be the sweepers. But a goalkeepers task is not the same as a sweepers and this change will effect every other player. Since the goalkeepers primary task is to protect the goal each team must decide who will be responsible for the opposing striker, or the zone in front of their goal. As shown, a simple lob can leave the orange #9 in a 1v1 with the blue GK. This can then be repeated going back the other way. In order to solve this problem both teams will have to redistribute the basic tasks.

In this diagram the blue #7 has dropped back from the striker position to mark the orange #9. The orange #9 can also assume this responsibility for his team, effectively creating a man to man situation on the field. While this solves the problem of the lob, and who has who, both teams can simply bring out the GK as the extra man creating a 4v3. This is a whole new problem requiring a new solution which man to man marking doesn't provide for.

This diagram shows the same "who's marking the striker" problem and a new one. The new problem is in the orange teams positioning when they lose the ball. Their GK has moved to the right half while a teammate, #6, covers for him. Because the #6 is not a GK, cannot use his hands, he cannot meet the responsibilities of the position. This places a severe limit on the principle of mobility for both teams. The free interchange in positions is only possible between the three field players and the goalkeeper is for practical purposes stuck in the back. The outfield players movement is more characteristic of 3v3.

The only difference in the basic 4v4 game and 4v4 using goalkeepers is a change in the rules, one player may use their hands, and a usually a larger goal. The rule change effects the distribution of tasks inside the game. The effect on the game is considerable and requires the players and coach to rethink everything from the basic plan, what should the game look like, to what problems will occur and how they will be solved. When the two games are compared the differences outweigh the similarities. 3v3+ GK's offers different soccer problems, solutions and teaches different lessons than 4v4.

The game at right shows 4v4 with goalkeepers, the picture of Futsal. Here, all of the factors of 4v4, and real soccer, are present without limitations. Shooting is encouraged with the larger goals and GK's and the game provides a very realistic picture for learning.

The use of goalkeepers at practice is only one variable that a coach can affect through manipulating the rules. A coach that never uses goalkeepers at practice will find that his players won't be prepared to deal with them in a game. Likewise, to always use goalkeepers might hinder learning how to effectively build up play, (three team functions). The coach needs to strike a balance with the use of goalkeepers just like the balance between individual play and collective play. It is up to the coach to decide on what this balance is and how to achieve it.

Some recommendations

When introducing children to goalkeeping it may be appropriate to start them with recessed goals. This can allow them to deal with age appropriate shooting without the fear of anyone crashing into them.

When goalkeepers have the ball the standard instruction from most parents and coaches is to get the ball as far from the goal as possible, resulting in the "long boot." That the opponents often get possession is rarely considered. An option can be found in the sweeper keeper game. If the opponents are far away, bring it out yourself. If they're too close look for the deep player, even throw it. Think about the consequences of the initial decision.

When children play in the goal they can become very defensive and "bunker down" on the line. This is largely due to the weight of responsibility of the position. To start with, the coach can help minimize the fear by ignoring a lot of the goals that get by. Continually drawing attention to failure can lead to a heightened fear of failure and the predictable fight or flight syndrome. The occasional "oopsies" from the coach can help to relieve stress.
Other ideas to help get the keeper off of the line:
#The midfield game using goalkeepers, forces the goalkeepers to get across midfield for their team to score.
#Sweeper keeper, encourages the goalkeeper to be an active part of the attack.
#Use a standard 4v4 sized field with a midfield line. The goalkeeper is allowed to use his hands anywhere in his own half, (no backpass and goals cannot be thrown in). This encourages the GK's to get out from the goal and meet the opponents at midfield, dare them to try the chip shot. Think aggressively.
#Big goal-two small goals, lots of success in bringing the ball out from in front of the goal. Every attack starts with the GK and they soon become aware of their importance and power.
#Last man back is the goalkeeper. This rule keeps in place the principle of mobility at the expense of one player taking on the responsibilities of the position. Whoever is closest to the goal is the goalkeeper. Recessed goals might be of use in this game.

In the modern game foot skills will be as much a part of the goalkeepers arsenal as most field players. The time spent playing in nongoalkeeping roles in small sided games will never be wasted. Likewise, the basics of goalkeeping can be learned largely through play, and small sided games offer ample opportunity for that.


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