How to Defend a Corner Kick

A corner kick in soccer is called when the ball goes out of bounds and the offense takes possession. A corner kick is a great way for the offense to plant the ball inside "the box" and near the goal net. It is also a strategic position to be in for the other offensive players. Here are some tips for defending a corner kick.

Instructions

1. Allow the goalie to be in charge. Train the goalie on how to arrange the players to best defend a corner kick from this particular kicker. Then allow the goalie to do her job.

2. Choose you defensive plan by arranging defensive players either in a position or on a man. If you are going to stick to the man-on-man method, do not leave the person you are guarding against. Get in between the offensive player and the goal net. If you are going to defend an area, plant one defensive player on each the front and back goalposts. Plant one player in the center of the goal. And stay out of the way of the goalie. Finally, plant another defensive player near the corner kick.

3. Line up additional men in a row in front of the corner kick. Stand back just far enough to fall within the regulations and lock arms. It will be hard to launch a ball over players heads and with the velocity to position the ball in front of the goal. All players face the corner kick except one man who faces the goalie. Allow the goalie to move the men left or right to correctly position them. Stand firm.

4. Clear the ball. The object is to protect the goal. Clear the ball out of "the box" as quickly as possible. Try not to clear it in the direction that causes another corner kick.

Tips & Warnings

• Watch for floater out and away from the goal that may receive the corner kick and maneuver it in the back door.