Lets start today’s post with a fact,
Possession of the ball in Soccer is half the Battle.
What this simply means is when your opponent has the ball, we must work and aim at getting it back. We do this through interception or by tackling. Tackling might look easy but it usually leads to clumsy challenges that result in red cards.
Think about this for a minute, when we pass or kick the ball, the split second decision is completely up to us. After all we have possession of the ball and can decide when to release it. This is the opposite when tackling. The magic moment of tackling is offered to us by our opponents mistake or positioning of the ball. This requires great concentration on the part of the tackling player and an avid watch of the opponent’s feet and legs.
But not every player can master the art of the soccer tackle. Tackling demands a measure of courage as physical contact, even collision can be part of this movement. Scared, physically weak or indecisive players are hardly suitable for defensive roles where tackling is crucial and required for large parts of the game. So what characteristics are needed for soccer tackling?
Physical strength is the main ingredient needed when tackling. The laws of soccer clearly allow the use of shoulder against shoulder when battling for the ball. Skill is also needed to get close to the shielded ball and balance to stay on your feet. Intelligence and good judgement should also be included to avoid injuries and the inevitable red card.
Lets go through some examples to identify the different forms of tackling.
When your opponent is running towards you and for that split second he loses control of the ball by allowing the ball to run too far forward. This is the moment when we strike and intercept the ball. If your opponent has good control and doesn’t over extend his possession then a physical tackle becomes necessary. In these cases you as the defender must place your foot firmly against the ball with all your body weight behind that leg. When you make contact with your opponent, the tackle becomes more effective when you push your opponent of the ball with an identical part of the body. (Shoulder against shoulder or chest against chest.)
Never use your arms as this will be deemed a free kick even if you manage to steal the ball with your foot. Your tackling foot serves as a hurdle, blocking the path of the ball while your upper body is used to help unbalance your opponent. The foot must be firmly flexed and your motion for the ball must be determined and forceful, but fair. Only have eyes for the ball and even if you mistime your tackle, the referee will not see it as a vicious tackle.
When tackling, the aim is not to kick the ball away but to regain possession of the ball and start our own attacking movement with the stolen ball. So what happens when your opponent is receiving the ball in front of you?
Tackling from behind is a difficult and often controversial operation. It’s been proven that it is physically impossible to get to a ball from behind without committing a foul. However, if you are alert and sharp, you can slide in from behind and intercept the ball before your opponent receives it. The sliding tackle is a risky move and should only be used as a last resort. The sliding tackle if unsuccessful,
- results in you the defender on the ground and your opponent many meters away on the attack.
- there is a chance you might get injured
- and the referee flashing his red card.
The sliding tackle must be aimed at the ball; the foot must reach the ball first to be judged fair. Try to make sure your timing is perfect and make sure you make contact with the ball before you touch the player.
Tackling from the side is often reduced to a simple physical effort. We flex our shoulder with the arm pressed to the side and push the opponent’s shoulder, separating him from the ball. This is completely legal and a great way to exert your physical presence on the field.
Don’t underestimate the power and the benefit of the Soccer tackle. Soccer tackling has enabled the less skillful and technical players carve out an illustrious career in the modern game. The likes of Keane and Vinnie Jones are just 2 that stand out in the crowd. The need for a hard tackling midfielder and a strong, intimidating defence cannot be questioned.
Always remember to practice tackling. It might not be glamorous but it’s required when your team hasn’t got the ball. Could your child become a big,strong and feared defender? Not every child will have the silky skills of Ronaldo, but every child can grit their teeth and deliver determination through strength and hunger. Think about it!
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