Hernia

What is a Hernia?

Hernia and groin problems are common in sports, particularly in football where the pelvic region is subject to large stresses during kicking, sprinting and turning. Two common conditions that affect footballers are an Inguinal Hernia and Gilmore's Groin (also known as a Sports Hernia).

Following sporting activity the person with a sports hernia will be stiff and sore in the groin region. The day after a football match, getting out of bed or a car will be difficult. In the early stages, the person may be able to continue playing their sport, but the problem usually gets progressively worse.

What can you do to prevent a Hernia?

Core Strength and Core Stability exercises can improve muscle function across the trunk and pelvis. This improved muscular strength and stability can help to counteract the large forces that are applied to the lower abdomen and pelvis. This can reduce the risk of developing a hernia.

What should you do if you suffer a Hernia? 

Anyone with the signs and symptoms of a hernia should consult a hernia specialist. Because it requires an expert to diagnose a hernia it is not unusual for many weeks or months to pass before the correct diagnosis is made. In those people who have typical hernia symptoms an expert can confirm the diagnosis with physical tests and an ultrasound scan.

In most cases it is usually possible to continue playing football while wearing Warm Pants, until an opportune time can be arranged for surgery. The surgical treatment of hernias has been revolutionised over the past ten years. The world's top hernia surgeons now perform hernia surgery under local anaesthetic. This has greatly accelerated the rehabilitation period.

Knee Cartilage Tear

What is a Knee Cartilage Tear?  

A torn cartilage occurs fairly frequently in football. Cartilage tears accounted for 12% of all Premiership injuries in the PhysioRoom.com 2004/2005 Analysis of Injuries. The term cartilage tear is slightly misleading, since it is the meniscus within the knee that is actually damaged. There are two menisci within each knee joint that are made from tough fibrocartilage - hence the use of the term cartilage for this injury.

As the knee joint bends the thigh bone usually rolls, spins and glides on the top surface of the shin bone. However, if there is rotation caused by a twist whilst the joint is bearing weight, the menisci can get jammed and nipped in between the two bones. If the force is sufficient, a tear of the meniscus will occur.

Cartilage tears are usually accompanied by pain and knee swelling. If it is a small tear if may simply settle down. However, with larger cartilage tears, the flap of torn cartilage may interfere with joint movement and cause the knee point to lock or give way.


What can you do to prevent a Knee Cartilage Tear?

There isn't a great deal that you can do to prevent a Cartilage tear. These injuries occur due to the positioning of the knee in a semi bent position while it is bearing weight. Having strong Quadriceps and Hamstring muscles that can deal with the strain on the knee joint may be helpful.


What should you do if you suffer a Torn Knee Cartilage?

Cases of knee pain and knee swelling that are accompanied by locking and giving way should be assessed by a chartered physiotherapist or doctor. Small cartilage tears may settle with physiotherapy treatment, but more significant cartilage tears may require surgery.

Surgical removal of the torn fibrocartilage is known as a meniscectomy. This knee surgery is usually undertaken using an arthroscope – a small camera that allows the surgeon to visualise the inside of the knee. The surgeon then uses a small burring device to trim away the torn cartilage. Following surgery, a period of 4 to 6 weeks physiotherapy is usually required.

Sprained Ankle

What is a Sprained Ankle? 


A sprained ankle is one of the most common injuries in football. It refers to soft tissue damage (mainly ligaments) around the ankle, usually caused when the ankle is twisted inwards

As well as damage to the ligaments, the capsule which surrounds the ankle joint can also be damaged. The damage causes bleeding within the tissues, which produces a swollen ankle and ankle pain.


What can you do to prevent a Sprained Ankle?

Taping and bracing the ankle can help to reduce the risk of ankle sprains. Previous research has shown the injury incidence in people with taped ankles was 4.9 ankle sprains per 1000 participant games, compared with 2.6 ankle sprains per 1000 participant games in subjects wearing ankle braces. This compared with 32.8 ankle sprains per 1000 participant games in subjects that had no taping or bracing.

Rehabilitation with a chartered physiotherapist significantly improves the level of ankle function. Wobble board training is designed to assist the re-education of balance and proprioception. Previous research has suggested that patients with ankle instability who underwent wobble board training experienced significantly fewer recurrent sprains during a follow-up period than those who did not follow the training programme.

The use of an Ankle Brace is a convenient alternative to taping the ankle.


What should you do if you suffer a Sprained Ankle?

In the first few days following an ankle sprain it is important to follow the PRICE protocol – protection, rest, ice, compression and elevation (never apply ice directly to the skin). The Aircast Ankle Cryocuff is the most effective method of providing ice therapy and is the professional's choice. It can provide continuous ice cold water and compression for 6 hours and significantly reduce ankle pain and swelling.

Hamstring Strain

What is a Hamstring Strain?        


During sprinting activities in football the Hamstring muscles can be forcibly stretched beyond their limits and the muscle tissue can be torn. A tear in a muscle is referred to as a strain and, depending on its severity, it is classified as a first, second or third degree strain.

Hamstring muscle strains accounted for almost 40% of Premiership injuries in the 2004/2005 PhysioRoom.com Analysis of Injuries. The Hamstring muscles work over both the hip and knee joint and can become susceptible to injury due to fatigue.


What can you do to prevent a Hamstring Strain?

A warm up, prior to matches and training, is thought to decrease muscle injuries because the muscle is more extensible when the tissue temperature has been increased by one or two degrees. A good warm up should last at least 20 minutes - starting gently and finishing at full pace activity. Practising sport specific activities helps tune coordination and prepare mentally for football.


Warm Pants provide extra warmth around the Hamstring region.


What should you do if you suffer a Hamstring Strain injury?

The immediate treatment of any muscle injury consists of the RICE protocol - rest, ice and compression and elevation (never apply ice directly to the skin). All injuries should be reviewed by a doctor or chartered physiotherapist. Depending upon the severity of the Hamstring injury, the leg must be rested from sporting activity for between a couple of weeks and 3 months.

Top 5 Football Injuries

1 Hamstring Strain
2 Sprained Ankle
3 Knee Cartilage Tear
4 Hernia
5 Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL)


Association Football or 'Soccer' is the world's most popular sport. There are over 240 million registered players worldwide and many more recreational football players.


Most football injuries affect the lower extremities, which are defined as the groin and pelvis, hip and thigh, knee, calf, foot and ankle. Research shows that most football injuries are caused by trauma, such as a collision with an opponent or landing awkwardly from a jump. Approximately one quarter to one third of all football injuries are due to overuse and develop over a period of time.

When reviewing the published literature on football injuries, the overall incidence of injury in football is between 9 and 35 injuries per 1000 hours of football in adults, and between 0.5 and 13 injuries per 1000 hours of football in adolescents. It is clear that the older the player, the more likely they are to get injured.

The research also shows that more injuries occur during competitive matches than occur during training. There is also a sex difference in football injuries with female players having a higher injury rate than males.

Football is popular despite its higher incidence of injury in comparison to other sports. Footballers suffer more injuries than those involved in field hockey, basketball, rugby, cricket, badminton, cycling, judo, boxing and swimming. However, it should be said that many of the injuries sustained in football are not particularly severe.

Having more knowledge of common football injuries is a great way to help you prevent getting injured.

More about each injury will be dicussed in detail next posts.

Goolkeeping

Keepers have the essential job of protecting their goal by any means necessary. The margin for getting away with error is very, very low. Safety and effectiveness is the name of the game, when it comes to goaltending. A keeper is typically expected to make all routine saves in a match and attempt to deflect the rest.




How to handle the ball

The goalkeeper's main objective is to prevent goals. He does that by either clearing or catching the ball.


Settling the ball

The general method used for settling rising shots (or shots above shoulder level) is known as The W. The name comes from the positioning of the keeper's hands. The index finger and thumb on both of his hands are locked at about 45 degrees. His hands are put next to each other, forming the letter W. Ideally, the index fingers should not be perpendicular but pointing slightly inward.

Balls directed below shoulder level (or dropping balls) are handled by cushioning it from below. Similarly to handling a baby, the keeper must cushion the ball from underneath, pressing it against his chest.



Different methods of handling the ball


Rolling ball pickup

The safest way to gather a rolling ball is to get down on one knee and scoop it up with your hands. To ensure that the ball has no chance of going through your legs, you must plant your other foot near the grounded knee. From this position, you can easily cradle the ball to your chest. As you lock the ball against your chest, lean forward to protect it.

Grounding the ball 

Raise the knee of your opposite foot (the one further away from the ball) and leap sideways, off your other foot. When handling the ball, have your nearer arm parallel to the ground with fingers and thumb forming the bottom part of the W. Your other hand should be used for guiding the ball down.

Diving for air shots

This is one of the more spectacular techniques used in goalkeeping. In terms of execution, it encompasses a scissors-like movement, similar to a bicycle kick. First, raise the knee of your leg which is further away from the ball. Then, take off from your other foot which should be nearer to the ball. As you're flying, accelerate the knee of your leaping foot while extending the other. When you catch the ball, get your hands on top of it and use it as a landing cushion. The ball should touch the floor before the rest of your body. Contrary to intuition, you should not land the dive on your side.

Crosses

On high crosses and steeply falling balls, you must be the first person to contact the ball. Take off from one leg with the knee of the other raised as high as you can. This will give you protection against enemies (and even teammates) that can potentially collide with you. Immediately after you grip the ball, bring it to your chest and lean over it.

Tackling

Skillful defenders are masters of denying their opposition. They limit the ball carrier, slow him down, and generally prevent his direct route to goal.



How to pressure the ball

Never charge at the ball unless you are absolutely sure that you will get it. If the enemy has the ball in control at his feet you must contain him. To contain (or jockey) your opponent means to position yourself in front of him and wait until he releases the ball far enough for you to intercept it. Some dribblers will move the ball without providing you with adequate time for a tackle. All you can do in such cases is remain between the ball carrier and your own goal and wait until he errs.


Different methods of defending

Containing (jockeying)

When containing an attacker you must lower your center of gravity by bending your knees and leaning forward. Backpedal if the attacker moves sideways. Never face a dribbler straight on, because he will put the ball between your legs or he may run by you. You won't have the time to make a complete 180-degree turn. Instead, approach the ball carrier at a 45-degree angle forcing him towards the sideline. Be prepared to move laterally with your opponent, do not just lunge at him.

Block tackle

The block tackle is the most basic way of depleting an opponent of the ball. It is designed to give you possession while keeping you on your feet. Plant your supporting foot firmly so that you don't lose balance. Then, just as your opponent contacts the ball, you must put your free foot perpendicularly to the direction in which he is moving. If executed properly, this will cause your enemy to stumble or cough up the ball.

Poke tackle

With poke tackling, you basically stab the ball away from your opponent. You must use the foot which is closer to the ball. This method does not guarantee that you will gain possession of the ball.

Slide tackle

Although spectacular, slide tackling should not be used unless in desperation or when you're away from your own goal. It can also be very effective against opponents dribbling down the sideline or shielding the ball.

Dribbling

How to move with the ball


Before you can take on defenders, you must learn the proper mechanics of dribbling. Dribbling can be done with the inside, outside, instep, and sole of the foot. You should be able to run with the ball or change direction, while keeping it under your control. When you want to pick up speed, do not kick the ball farther away. Instead, move your feet quicker thus pushing the ball more frequently. When dribbling into space, don't just fix your eyes on the ball. Learn to simultaneously dribble and scan the field around you.


Taking on defenders

First of all, you should always be the person with most immediate access to the ball. If you don't keep it close to your body, you will lose it. Be patient when confronted by a defender. If he is jockeying you, use feints and tricks to get him off balance. Never put your head down and pray that the move will work. Instead, react to the defender by looking at his stance and trying to find weaknesses in his footing.

The creative dribbler

The creative dribbler has flair and creativity which he learnt unconsciously by going past opponent and leaving them "wrong-footed".

The creative dribbler often dribbles wherever he goes: walking on his way to school, playing one-two's off curbs, tree trunks, buildings... and when he gets home he can't wait to play in small-sided games where he gets lots of touches on the ball or tries a new move he saw on TV. He goes out and tries to learn the mechanics and the balance so he can then execute the move at game speed against opponents.

Whenever he doesn't have anyone around, he usually challenges trees to 1v1 battles or dribbles around them one by one, in a slalom. This way, he can practice the fundamentals of beating opponents in a game-like situation. The dribbler does a move on one tree and explodes to the next.

The dribbler then develops perfect technique for beating opponents and leaves them wrong-footed whenever he is challenged to an 1v1 duel.

Heading

How to head a football
Players who can't head the ball correctly are at a higher risk for injury. Therefore, it is important to learn how to head the ball at an early age. One of the most common obstacles is overcoming your natural fear of getting hit in the head by a flying object. So, don't let the ball to hit you. You are the one who is swinging at it!
The ball should be struck with the top part of your forehead. Young players tend to close their eyes when heading the ball. By doing so, you can't see where the ball is and you can seriously injure yourself. Lock your eyes on the part of the ball that you want to head. Hitting it below its equator will cause it to rise while striking the upper part of the ball produces a downward header.
The power of a header does not come from your neck muscles. Bend back your entire upper body and then lunge forward to strike the ball. Before heading the ball, you should adjust to its flight by taking a succession of short shuffling steps. This helps you avoid tilting to the side after you have leapt in the air. Remember, it won't hurt if you do it correctly.

Different methods of striking the ball

Standard header
To head the ball with a good amount of power you'll need to arch back and swing your head forward. Keep your shoulders leveled and perpendicular to your aim. Contact should be made with the center of the forehead.

Diving header
In this technique, you must propell your entire body in the path of the ball. Your arms have to be stretched forward for protection on landing.









Glancing header

When executing a g lancing header, you must turn your head in direction of your aim. This motion redirects the oncoming ball.

Flick header
On flick headers, you are actually making contact with the back of your head. As you arch backward, you direct the ball backwards. This technique is often used by midfielders who have their back towards the opponent's goal.

Ball Control

Broadly defined, control is the ability to manipulate the ball and prepare it for a following touch. It is one of the most essential skills in football. A bad first touch and the play is usually over for the attacker. Nearly all top players are known for having good control over the ball.

How to control the ball
There are two types of control, receiving and trapping. Receiving means directing the ball into space away from the body. Trapping is stopping the ball right at your feet.

Receiving
Receiving is useful When running into space. Try to make contact with the middle or top part of the ball. Tap it lightly in the direction that you want to go. Good footballers can settle the ball into open space, even when under pressure. This often provides an extra step over the defender.

Trapping
Trapping is typically used when the ball is going too fast to redirect with your first touch. The most important part here is staying loose and on your toes. You can't adjust to the ball when you're stiff or flat-footed. Try keeping your hips open, facing the direction from where the ball is coming. Put you foot in the path of the ball and cushion it. To cushion the ball, gently withdraw your foot just before the time of contact.

How to practice control
The easiest way to practice control is with a partner. Your partner throws you the ball with his hands. After settling it with a single, clean touch you pass it back to him.
If you lack a partner, you can use a wall. Simply stand at about 3-5 meters (10-15 feet) away from the wall and knock the ball against it. You then trap or receive the ball as it comes back to you. This exercise gives you the chance to work on both your kicking and control. As you get comfortable, start applying both feet. Eventually, try lofting the ball and incorporate speed by running to meet the oncoming ball.

Different methods of control

Inside of the foot
Your supporting foot must be planted 45-90 degrees in relation to the path of the ball. Don't plant it flat, instead keep your your weight on your toes. You should intercept the ball with the arch of your free foot. At the time of contact, cushion the ball by moving your foot along the ball's original path.
Instead of trapping the ball you may wish to redirect it. To do so, simply turn your receiving foot in the desired direction.

Outside of the foot
This technique is useful when the ball is coming in from the side. Rather than turning your body into its path, you can control it using the outside of the foot. Simply reach forward into the ball's path and intercept it with the outside of your instep. That should settle it nicely considering that the outside of your foot provides a lot of contact surface.

Sole of the foot
Simply put your foot on the ball with your toes raised slightly above your heel. Because of the modern game's speed, trapping with the sole of the foot is rarely applied to control passes. It can be useful in dribbling. Some players use it to stop right before changing direction or incorporate it in more elaborate combos.

Instep 
This technique is useful when the ball is falling from a steep angle. Don't just wait for the ball to arrive, stay on your toes and lock your eyes on it. Quickly adjust to its trajectory so that you don't have to reach out too far. Before the ball arrives, stretch the ankle of your controlling foot. Try to cushion the ball using the area around your shoelaces. At the moment of contact, withdraw your controlling foot by bending the knee and ankle. This should settle the ball right in front of you.


Thigh 

The thigh is especially useful in football when you want to trap the ball. Redirecting it into space is somewhat harder when you're using the thigh. Cushioning the ball with the thigh can be done for both rising and dropping balls. Make sure you position yourself properly, before you try to trap the ball. Once you have aligned yourself well, put your thigh in the path of the ball and angle it so that it's redirected downward. If you don't retract, the ball will just bounce off of you. The contact surface you should use is the area above the knee, about halfway on your thigh. The inside of your thigh is good for stopping balls that are flying straight at you.

Chest 
The chest provides the largest surface area for trapping or receiving the ball. When using it for control, stretch out your arms and flex your muscles. To cushion the ball, you'll need to arch your back slightly. You may also have to bend your knees or jump in order to align your chest with the height of the ball.


Head
Set up your body just as if you're about to head the ball. Instead of heading it, simply intercept its path using the surface area on your forehead, just below the hairline. Just before making contact, turn your head in whatever direction you want the ball to go (receiving).
If you just want to bring the ball to your feet (trapping) do not turn your head, instead bend your knees and lean forward with you upper body.

Kicking

Kicking is a fundamental and versatile technique used for passing, shooting and clearing. True footballers refer to it as striking the ball because it sounds more controlled.


How to strike the ball

There are two general types of kicks based on the position of the ball, ground kicks and volleys.

 Ground kicks

In order to produce a quality kick you'll need balance and composure. The placement of your supporting foot is just as important as your other, kicking foot. To control the height of your shot or pass, be aware of where your supporting foot is, in relation to the ball. By placing your supporting foot in line with the ball, you will achieve power while keeping your kick low. By placing it slightly behind, you will produce a rising or lofted ball. Your upper body also plays a role when kicking the ball. When you lean back, the ball will rise and if you lean forward your kick remain low and hard.

In order to get the maximum power from a strike, the knee of your kicking leg has to be above or in line with the ball at the exact moment you make contact. Follow-through in a sweeping motion in direction of your target. If you have trouble understanding this concept, try landing on your kicking foot after you strike the ball.

 Volleys

When striking the ball in the air, proper balance is essential. Therefore, you need to adapt to the path of the ball by making quick adjustments in your footing. You are ready to swing only after you have positioned yourself at a proper distance from the ball. You should not attempt a volley, if you feel that you are reaching out too far or when the ball is too close to your body for a good swing.

Some situations may require jumping and volleying at the same time. Stay composed and concentrate on timing your leap.

How to practice kicking

The best way to practice your technique is against a keeper (or a friend) who consistently serves the ball back to you. If that is rarely an option, then any regular wall, ledge or flat surface can work as a replacement. Beginners should work on kicking dead balls (meaning they must trap it before kicking) while advanced players can practice striking the ball without settling it first. Many variations and drills available, such as aiming at a target on the wall or dribbling (in random directions) before you kick. Being able to strike the ball from any situation will improve all aspects of your game which include kicking, for example passing, finishing, clearing and so on. In order to learn the proper mechanics, practice with as few interruptions as possible. Also, look at better or more experienced players and study their technique.

A friend can be very useful when you're working on your volleys. Ask him to throw the ball at your feet and try to hit it back to his hands. Practicing volleys is slightly more of a hassle when you're alone, but it can be done. Simply toss the ball (or kick it) upwards and strike as it drops down. Stay composed and adjust to it its path. Don't swing desperately if the ball is out of your reach.

Different methods of striking the ball


Inside of the foot (push pass) 

Put your supporting foot about 10 cm to the side of the ball with your toes pointed in direction of your target. With your ankle locked at about 90 degrees, bring your kicking leg back and swing through the equator of the ball. Your kicking ankle must be perpendicular to your supporting foot. Contact the ball with the arch of your foot and follow-through in the direction of your target. When well executed, the ball will roll smoothly rather than bounce or skip along the ground.

Outside of the foot

When planting your supporting foot next to the ball, your toes have to be directed about 15-30 degrees outward from your target. This will let you drive your other foot straight at the target, hitting the ball with the outside of your laces.

Instep drive

Place your supporting foot in line with the ball and toes aimed at your target. Bring your kicking foot back and swing it forward in one swift motion. Don't pause between retracting and extending your leg. Accelerate your foot through the ball, as if it doesn't exist. The toes and the ankle of your kicking foot should be stretched and locked. To keep the shot low, meet the ball at the equator or slighly above it. Lean forward and keep your shoulders over the ball. Strike it with the inside of your shoelaces and follow through in the direction of your target.

Inside curve

Position your supporting foot to the side of the ball with toes aimed at your target or slightly to the side of it. Swing forward with your kicking foot and meet the ball with the upper part of your big toe. "Slice" the ball not in the center but low on the outside, so that a spin will be produced. Follow through in the direction of your swing, not directly towards your target.

Outside curve

If you're kicking the ball with your right foot put your supporting foot on the left side of the ball or vice versa. The toes of your supporting foot should be aimed at your target or slightly to the side, in the direction of the curve. Bring your kicking foot back and swing forward aiming for the inside part of the ball. Again, if you're kicking with your left foot, aim for the right side of the ball. Contact the ball with the outside, lower part of your shoelaces. Remember to follow-through.

Chip 

Your supporting foot should be planted next to the ball with toes pointed at your target. Quickly thrust your kicking foot back and then forward without moving your thigh too much. Sharply cut the ball from the bottom with the the tip of your toes. This will produce a lofted ball, spinning vertically towards you.

Volley 

The volley is a kick used when the ball is above ground. In terms of technique, it follows the same principles as the instep drive. Producing a good volley is largely determined by your timing. Concentrate on when to swing rather than where to contact the ball. Don't try to hit the ball really hard. If you strike it at the right time, it will have enough power and you'll get more control over its direction. Make small adjustments in your footing so that you are well balanced prior to actually swinging at it.

Soccer Techniques And Skills

Technique refers to the ability of a player to perform specific mechanical movements such as kicking, trapping or shooting the ball. The mark of an experienced player is moving smoothly and efficiently and the ability to transition between the elegance of different techniques.

Soccer skill can be developed through repetition, observation or visualization. At the regular training and practice of a movement or technique, the player builds the confidence and the target motion becomes natural for him.

 

Another type of "training" should be considered watches games on television or video in slow motion. The act of observing the skills of other players can help improve your own technique.

 

Visualization is a radically new method used to create and develop capacity. He focuses on you imagine the third person, while applying a specific technique.

 

The following sections break the basic skills most often used in the game:

1. kicking
2. ball control (controlling the ball at speed)
3. heading
4. dribbling (drills, basic dribbling, intermediate moves and advanced)
5. tackling
6. goalkeeping

Styles of play

Counter-attacking football

The objective of this type of football is to catch the opponent on the "break". When they give possession in midfield or attack, defensive players will tend to be higher on the ground than usual and may not be able to adapt quickly to a defensive mindset. Counter-attacking football in May involve leaving one or two strikers near the half way line in the hope of passing the ball may be played to catch the opponent by surprise. This tends to go hand in hand with a long through ball tactic . 


In other cases, defenders and midfielders may join in the cons-attack, trying to outdo or exceed in number the opposition by quick and intelligent movement and passes quickly. Speed is an important factor in both attack and defense, as the probability of scoring decreases sharply when the opponent has managed to organize their defense.

Teams playing efficiently fight against football striker will try particularly hard to dispossess midfielders opponent. A measure to prevent this is to play long ball defenders to attackers, temporarily omitting the players in the middle.

Possession football

The teams aim to keep control of the ball for long periods of time in the process of a large proportion of passages that give low risk of losing the ball is said to play possession football. Using this tactic requires skillful players in ball control and accurate passing. If successful, it will tire the opposing players because they have to run and tackle more. Moreover, the term may indicate that each player retains possession for a period of time longer, with more keys. This will ensure that the move will be accurate and effective.

Direct football

More often associated with counter-attacking football than with possession football, direct football means that players spend little time with the ball before passing. In order to achieve this, each player frequently uses only one or two touches. The direct attack is sometimes associated with the long-ball style. Long ball is the term used in association football to describe an attempt, often speculative, to distribute the ball a long distance down the field via a cross, without the intention to pass it to the feet of the receiving player. It is a technique that can be especially effective for a team with a tall striker to get in the box.

Laws Of The Game(6)

LAW 15: THE THROW-IN

Referees are reminded that opponents may be no closer than 2 m from the point at which the throw-in is taken. Where necessary, the referee must warn any player within this distance before the throw-in is taken and caution the player if he subsequently fails to retreat to the correct distance. Play is restarted with a throw-in.

If a player, while correctly taking a throw-in, intentionally throws the ball at an opponent in order to play the ball again but neither in a careless nor a reckless manner nor using excessive force, the referee must allow play to continue.

If the ball enters the opponents’ goal directly from a throw-in, the referee must award a goal kick. If the ball enters the thrower’s own goal directly from a throw-in, the referee must award a corner kick.

If the ball touches the ground before entering the field of play, the throw-in is retaken by the same team from the same position provided that it was taken in line with the correct procedure. If the throw-in is not taken in line with the correct procedure, it is retaken by the opposing team.

LAW 16:  THE GOAL KICK

If a player who has taken a goal kick correctly deliberately plays the ball a second time when the ball has left the penalty area before another player has touched it, an indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team in the position where the second touch occurred .

However, if the player touches the ball with his hand, he must be penalised with a direct free kick and a disciplinary sanction if required.

If an opponent enters the penalty area before the ball is in play and is fouled by a defender, the goal kick is retaken and the defender may be cautioned or sent off depending on the nature of the offence.

LAW 17:  THE CORNER KICK

Referees are reminded that opponents must remain at least 9.15 m (10 yds) from the corner arc until the ball is in play (the optional marks off the field of play may be used for assistance). Where necessary, the referee must warn any player within this distance before the corner kick is taken and caution the player if he subsequently fails to retreat to the correct distance.

If the kicker touches the ball a second time before it has touched another player, an indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team in the position where the second touch occurred .

If a player, while correctly taking a corner kick, intentionally kicks the ball at an opponent in order to play the ball again but neither in a careless nor a reckless manner nor using excessive force, the referee must allow play to continue.

The ball must be placed inside the corner arc and is in play when it is kicked, therefore the ball does not need to leave the corner arc to be in play.

Laws Of The Game(5)

LAW 13:  FREE KICKS

The ball is in play when it is kicked and moves.


A free kick can be taken by lifting the ball with a foot or both feet simultaneously.

Feinting to take a free kick to confuse opponents is permitted as part of football. However, if in the opinion of the referee, the feinting is considered an act of unsporting behaviour, the player must be cautioned.

If a player, while correctly taking a free kick, intentionally kicks the ball at an opponent in order to play the ball again but neither in a careless nor a reckless manner nor using excessive force, the referee must allow play to continue.

An indirect free kick must be retaken if the referee fails to raise his arm to indicate that the kick is indirect and the ball is kicked directly into the goal. The initial indirect free kick is not nullified by the referee’s mistake.

Distance

If a player decides to take a free kick quickly and an opponent who is less than 9.15 m from the ball intercepts it, the referee must allow play to continue.

If a player decides to take a free kick quickly and an opponent who is near the ball deliberately prevents him taking the kick, the referee must caution the player for delaying the restart of play.

If, when a free kick is taken by the defending team from inside its own penalty area, one or more opponents remain inside the penalty area because the defender decides to take the kick quickly and the opponents did not have time to leave the penalty area, the referee must allow play to continue.

LAW 14:  THE PENALTY KICK

Feinting to take a penalty kick to confuse opponents is permitted as part of football. However, if, in the opinion of the referee, the feinting is considered an act of unsporting behaviour, the player must be cautioned.

Preparing for the penalty kick

The referee must confirm the following requirements before the penalty kick is taken:

• the kicker is identified

• the ball is properly placed on the penalty mark

• the goalkeeper is on the goal line between the goal posts and facing the kicker

• the team-mates of the kicker and the goalkeeper are:

– outside the penalty area

– outside the penalty arc

– behind the ball

Laws Of The Game(4)

Law 11: Offside


Offside Position
It is not an offence in itself to be in an offside position.

A player is in an offside position if:
• he is nearer to his opponents’ goal line than both the ball and the second-last opponent

A player is not in an offside position if:
• he is in his own half of the field of play or
• he is level with the second-last opponent or
• he is level with the last two opponents

Offence
A player in an offside position is only penalised if, at the moment the ball touches or is played by one of his team, he is, in the opinion of the referee,
involved in active play by:
• interfering with play or
• interfering with an opponent or
• gaining an advantage by being in that position

No Offence
There is no offside offence if a player receives the ball directly from:
• a goal kick
• a throw-in
• a corner kick

In the event of an offside offence, the referee awards an indirect free kick to the opposing team to be taken from the place where the infringement occurred .

Law 12 :  Fouls And Misconduct

Fouls and misconduct are penalised as follows:


Direct Free Kick

A direct free kick is awarded to the opposing team if a player commits any of the following seven offences in a manner considered by the referee to be careless, reckless or using excessive force:

• kicks or attempts to kick an opponent

• trips or attempts to trip an opponent

• jumps at an opponent

• charges an opponent

• strikes or attempts to strike an opponent

• pushes an opponent

• tackles an opponent

A direct free kick is also awarded to the opposing team if a player commits any of the following three offences:

• holds an opponent

• spits at an opponent

• handles the ball deliberately (except for the goalkeeper within his own penalty area)

A direct free kick is taken from the place where the offence occurred.

Penalty Kick

A penalty kick is awarded if any of the above ten offences is committed by a player inside his own penalty area, irrespective of the position of the ball, provided it is in play.


Indirect Free Kick

An indirect free kick is awarded to the opposing team if a goalkeeper, inside his own penalty area, commits any of the following four offences:

• controls the ball with his hands for more than six seconds before releasing it from his possession

• touches the ball again with his hands after he has released it from his possession and before it has touched another player

• touches the ball with his hands after it has been deliberately kicked to him by a team-mate

• touches the ball with his hands after he has received it directly from a throw-in taken by a team-mate

An indirect free kick is also awarded to the opposing team if, in the opinion of the referee, a player:

• plays in a dangerous manner

• impedes the progress of an opponent

• prevents the goalkeeper from releasing the ball from his hands

• commits any other offence, not previously mentioned in Law 12, for which play is stopped to caution or send off a player

The indirect free kick is taken from the place where the offence occurred.


(Disciplinary Sanctions)

The yellow card is used to communicate that a player, substitute or substituted player has been cautioned.

The red card is used to communicate that a player, substitute or substituted player has been sent off.

Only a player, substitute or substituted player may be shown the red or yellow card.

The referee has the authority to take disciplinary sanctions from the moment he enters the field of play until he leaves the field of play after the final whistle.

A player who commits a cautionable or sending-off offence, either on or off the field of play, whether directed towards an opponent, a team-mate, the referee, an assistant referee or any other person, is disciplined according to the nature of the offence committed.

(Cautionable Offences)

A player is cautioned and shown the yellow card if he commits any of the following seven offences:

• unsporting behaviour

• dissent by word or action

• persistent infringement of the Laws of the Game

• delaying the restart of play

• failure to respect the required distance when play is restarted with a corner kick, free kick or throw-in

• entering or re-entering the field of play without the referee’s permission

• deliberately leaving the field of play without the referee’s permission


A substitute or substituted player is cautioned if he commits any of the following three offences:

• unsporting behaviour

• dissent by word or action

• delaying the restart of play

(Sending-off Offences)

A player, substitute or substituted player is sent off if he commits any of the following seven offences:

• serious foul play

• violent conduct

• spitting at an opponent or any other person

• denying the opposing team a goal or an obvious goal-scoring opportunity by deliberately handling the ball (this does not apply to a goalkeeper within his own penalty area)

• denying an obvious goal-scoring opportunity to an opponent moving towards the player’s goal by an offence punishable by a free kick or a penalty kick

• using offensive, insulting or abusive language and/or gestures

• receiving a second caution in the same match

A player, substitute or substituted player who has been sent off must leave the vicinity of the field of play and the technical area.

Laws OF The Game (3)

Law 8: THE START AND RESTART OF PLAY A coin is tossed and the team that wins the toss decides which goal it will attack in the first half of the match. The other team takes the kick-off to start the match. The team that wins the toss takes the kick-off to start the second half of the match. In the second half of the match, the teams change ends and attack the opposite goals.

Kick-off A kick-off is a way of starting or restarting play:
• at the start of the match
• after a goal has been scored
• at the start of the second half of the match
• at the start of each period of extra time, where applicable A goal may be scored directly from the kick-off.

Procedure
• all players must be in their own half of the field of play
• the opponents of the team taking the kick-off are at least 9.15 m (10 yds) from the ball until it is in play
• the ball must be stationary on the centre mark
• the referee gives a signal
• the ball is in play when it is kicked and moves forward
• the kicker must not touch the ball again until it has touched another player After a team scores a goal, the kick-off is taken by the other team.

Law 9: THE BALL IN AND OUT OF PLAY Ball Out of Play
The ball is out of play when:
• it has wholly crossed the goal line or touch line whether on the ground or in the air
• play has been stopped by the referee

Ball In Play
The ball is in play at all other times, including when:
• it rebounds off a goalpost, crossbar or corner fl agpost and remains in the fi eld of play
• it rebounds off either the referee or an assistant referee when they are on the field of play

Law 10:THE METHOD OF SCORING Goal Scored
A goal is scored when the whole of the ball passes over the goal line, between the goalposts and under the crossbar, provided that no infringement of the Laws of the Game has been committed previously by the team scoring the goal.

Winning Team
The team scoring the greater number of goals during a match is the winner. If both teams score an equal number of goals, or if no goals are scored, the match is drawn.

Competition Rules
When competition rules require there to be a winning team after a match or home-and-away tie, the only permitted procedures for determining the winning team are those approved by the International F.A. Board, namely:
• away goals rule
• extra time
• kicks from the penalty mark

Laws Of The Game (2)

Law 5: The Referee
is there any fair game without rules? absolutely no. Each match is controlled by a referee who has full authority to enforce the Laws of the Game in connection with the match to which he has been appointed.
Powers and Duties The Referee:
• enforces the Laws of the Game
• controls the match in cooperation with the assistant referees and, where applicable, with the fourth official
• ensures that any ball used meets the requirements of Law 2
• ensures that the players’ equipment meets the requirements of Law 4
• acts as timekeeper and keeps a record of the match
• stops, suspends or abandons the match, at his discretion, for any infringements of the Laws
• stops, suspends or abandons the match because of outside interference of any kind
• stops the match if, in his opinion, a player is seriously injured and ensures that he is removed from the field  of play. An injured player may only return to the field of play after the match has restarted
• allows play to continue until the ball is out of play if a player is, in his opinion, only slightly injured
• ensures that any player bleeding from a wound leaves the field of play. The player may only return on receiving a signal from the referee, who must be satisfied that the bleeding has stopped
• allows play to continue when the team against which an offence has been committed will benefit from such an advantage and penalises the original offence if the anticipated advantage does not ensue at that time
• punishes the more serious offence when a player commits more than one offence at the same time
• takes disciplinary action against players guilty of cautionable and sending-off offences. He is not obliged to take this action immediately but must do so when the ball next goes out of play

Law 6: The Assistant Referee Two assistant referees may be appointed whose duties, subject to the decision of the referee, are to indicate:

• when the whole of the ball leaves the field of play
• which team is entitled to a corner kick, goal kick or throw-in
• when a player may be penalised for being in an offside position
• when a substitution is requested
• when misconduct or any other incident occurs out of the view of the referee
• when offences have been committed whenever the assistant referees have a better view than the referee  (this includes, in certain circumstances, offences committed in the penalty area)
• whether, at penalty kicks, the goalkeeper moves off the goal line before the ball is kicked and if the ball  crosses the line The assistant referees also assist the referee to control the match in accordance with the  Laws of the Game. In particular, they may enter the field of play to help control the 9.15 m (10 yds)  distance. In the event of undue interference or improper conduct, the referee will relieve an assistant referee of his duties and make a report to the appropriate authorities.

The Laws Of The Game

The Laws authorized by International Football Association Board (IFAB). Modifications
Subject to the agreement of the member association concerned and provided the principles of these Laws are maintained, the Laws may be modified in their application for matches for players of under 16 years of age, for women footballers, for veteran footballers (over 35 years of age) and for players with disabilities.

Any or all of the following modifications are permissible:
• size of the field of play
• size, weight and material of the ball
• width between the goalposts and height of the crossbar from the ground
• duration of the periods of play
• substitutions Further modifications are only allowed with the consent of the International Football Association Board.

Male and Female
References to the male gender in the Laws of the Game in respect of referees, assistant referees, players and officials are for simplification and apply to both men and women.

Key
A single line in the left-hand margin indicates new Law changes. The current Laws of the Game (LOTG) consist of 17 individual laws:
1: The Field of Play
2: The Ball
3: The Number of Players
4: The Players' Equipment
5: The Referee
6: The Assistant Referees
7: The Duration of the Match
8: The Start and Restart of Play
9: The Ball In and Out of Play
10: The Method of Scoring
11: Offside
12: Fouls and Misconduct
13: Free Kicks
14: The Penalty Kick
15: The Throw-In
16: The Goal Kick
17: Corner kick
in previous posts we talked about the field of play , number of players, the ball and the players' equipment.
i will talk about the other laws in later post.

Formations

After illustrating the players positions lest's see how coaches positioning them based on selected formation. the formation describes how the players in a team are positioned on the field of play. Different formations can be used depending on whether a team want to play more attacking or defensive football according to the way of the match. As managers are unable to get on the field themselves, the formation is a good way for them to enforce their vision on the players. The type of formation selected by the manager reflects the sort of football you can expect them to play. There are many soccer formations ,I will list the most common formations that have been used in soccer, Let’s start…

4-4-2 (FourFourTwo)
This adaptable formation is the most common in football today . The midfielders are required to work hard to support both the defence and the attack: typically one of the central midfielders is expected to go upfield as often as possible to support the forward pair, while the other will play a "holding role", shielding the defence; the two wide midfield players must move up the flanks to the goal line in attacks and yet also protect the fullback wide defenders. It is a very popular formation in Britain especially. The main strength of the 4-4-2 formation is the balance. Offensive attacks are combined with solid defense. the weakness of 4-4-2 is the gaps between the central defenders, midfielders and the strikers. As such, a huge burden is placed on the central midfield to augment defense and attack.
4-4-2 diamond or 4-1-2-1-2
The 4-4-2 diamond (also described as 4-1-2-1-2) staggers the midfield. The width in the team has to come from the full-backs pushing forward. The defensive midfielder is sometimes used as a deep lying playmaker.

4-3-3 (Four Three Three)
the 4-3-3 encourages the wingers to act as true forwards and the formation generally emphasises attack more than defense. The three midfielders normally play closely together to protect the defence, and move laterally across the field as a coordinated unit. The three forwards split across the field to spread the attack, and may be expected to mark the opposition full-backs as opposed to doubling back to assist their own full-backs, as do the wide midfielders in a 4-4-2. When used from the start of a game, this formation is widely regarded as encouraging expansive play, and should not be confused with the practice of modifying a 4-4-2 by bringing on an extra forward to replace a midfield player when behind in the latter stages of a game.

5-3-2 This formation has three central defenders (possibly with one acting as a sweeper.) This system is heavily reliant on the wing-backs providing width for the team. The two wide full-backs act as wing-backs. It is their job to work their flank along the full length of the pitch, supporting both the defence and the attack.

4-5-1 Formation4-5-1 is a defensive formation; however if the two midfield wingers play a more attacking role it can be likened to 4-3-3. The formation can be used to grind out 0-0 draws or preserve a lead, as the packing of the centre midfield makes it difficult for the opposition to build-up play. Because of the 'closeness' of the midfield, the opposing team's forwards will often be starved of possession. However, due to the lone striker, the centre of the midfield does have the responsibility of pushing forward as well. The defensive midfielder will often control the pace of the game.

4-3-2-1 (the 'Christmas Tree' formation)
The 4-3-2-1 commonly described as the 'Christmas Tree' formation. Another forward is brought on for a midfielder to play 'in the hole', so leaving two forwards slightly behind the most forward striker. In this approach the middle of the three central midfielders act as a playmaker while one of the attacking midfielders plays in a free role. The Christmas Tree formation is considered a relatively narrow formation and depends on full-backs to provide presence in wide areas. The formation is also relatively fluid. During open play, one of the side central midfielders may drift to the flank to add additional presence.

Strikers

Strikers or forwards are the players on a team in the area nearest to the opposing team's goal (penalty area) .The primary responsibility of strikers/forwards is to score goals.The main ability of this player must be his strength and heading. Unlike the typical forward, the striker doesn’t shift to the sides as much. He stays in the middle as a target man and will typically be marked by at least one player.He should be powerful and good in the air.

1 Centre forward (CF) The centre forward, has one main task: to score goals. Coaches will often field one striker who plays on the shoulder of the last opposing defender and another attacking forward who plays somewhat deeper and assists in creating goals as well as scoring. He is required to have some abilities like finding holes in the opposing defence and, sometimes, dribbling. In other cases, strikers will operate on the wings of the field and work their way goalwards.

2 Striker (ST)
There is a difference between a centre forward and a striker and these two roles are easily confused, although they do share similarities. A striker is better known for making runs to beat defenders, trying to beat the offside trap and playing close to the goal area. They are typically recognised as quick, with good reaction speed and given few defensive responsibilities. This contrasts with the centre forward's different style of holding up play and leading the front line.

3 Deep-lying forward also known as Withdrawn striker, It is roughly defined as a forward player with both goalscoring and creative abilities. the position itself is a loosely-defined one somewhere between the out-and-out striker and the midfield. Such a player is either a skilful, attack-minded midfielder or a striker who can both score and create opportunities for centre forwards. Attacking midfielders can also perform this role effectively.

Midfielders

Midfielders are players whose position of play is in the middle between the attacking strikers and the defenders. Their main duties are to maintain possession of the ball, taking the ball from defenders and feeding it to the strikers, as well as dispossessing opposing players. Most managers field at least one central midfielder with a marked task of breaking up opposition's attacks while the rest are more adept to creating goals or have equal responsibilities between attack and defence. Midfielders can be expected to cover many areas of a pitch, as at times they can be called back into defence or required to attack with the strikers.Many midfielders score goals sometimes more than strikers.A good midfielders should have great stamina to fit with this position. As we mentioned before there are certain positions related to midfielders which are:
1 Centre midfielder (CM)
2 Defensive midfielder (DM)
3 Attacking midfielder (AM)
4 Winger (RW/LW) or wide midfielder (LM/RM)
Now let's explain each one in detail;

1 Center / Attacking / Offensive /Defensive midfielder (CM) Central midfielders play several roles on the field of play. They are described as the orchestra conductors, the engines of the team, the players pulling the strings from the middle. They are the link between defence and attack, and must also defend when the opposite team are in possession. When his team does not have possession, the center midfielder is expected to drop back and pressure the ball. Their central position enables them to have an all-round view of the match, and as most of the action takes place in and around their area of the pitch, midfielders often exert the greatest degree of control over how a match is played. In offense the attacking midfielder should be in involved in the action by making runs towards the ball. Even before he gets it, he should already know where and how he wants to distribute it.

2 Winger (RW/LW) or wide midfielder (LM/RM) Wingers are commonly found in teams who play with three attackers. Traditionally, wingers are strictly attacking players who stay wide, dribble the ball forward and serve in crosses. Like all attacking players, wingers need to have 'off-the-ball' intelligence, by being able to read passes from the midfield that give them a clear crossing or scoring opportunity. Traditionally, right-footed players are played on the right wing and left-footed players on the left as a matter of familiarity and comfort. However, in the modern game, coaches usually demand wingers to be able to play on both flanks and to switch flanks during play regularly as a quick change of tactics.