How to Save a Penalty Kick

Nobody expects the goalie to save a penalty kick, so relax and commit yourself to one side or the other.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Soccer Balls
• Soccer balls

1. Stay loose and limber as your teammates argue the call and the referees get into position.

2. Watch the shooter to see if she seems to be looking at a particular corner.

3. Determine which foot the shooter kicks with.

4. Decide which corner you're going to dive toward before the shooter approaches the ball.

5. Align yourself in the center of the goal on the goal line.

6. Wait for the whistle signaling the start of play.

7. Dive to your chosen corner with your arms completely extended the moment the shooter touches the ball.

8. Knock the ball away from the goal.

9. Get to your feet immediately after you save the ball because the game is live once you touch it.

Tips & Warnings

• The rules state that the goalie must wait until the ball is kicked before moving, but most goalies will move before. As long as it's not blatantly obvious, referees usually allow goalies a quick step.

• Commit yourself to the dive. As a goalie, you can't be afraid to throw your body around.

• If the game is being decided by penalty kicks, the ball is dead once you save it or once it's in the net.

• If you have any condition which would impair or limit your ability to engage in physical activity, please consult a physician before attempting this activity.