How to score a free kick

Free kicks are classic scoring opportunities that foster increased winning points for a game almost ending on a draw. Unless you feature flawless shot taking stunts like Messi or Beckham, you have little success from this angle. Scoring a free kick requires commitment and the ability to listen and respond to intuition.

Analyze the distance

A twenty foot distance requires greater kicking power than a twelve or thirteen distance. Analyzing this space takes into consideration various tenets like; positioning of defenders, goal post angle and the ability to take swift shots. Therefore to score a free kick, ensure the distance given doesn’t exceed your ability to take targeted and equally powerful strikes.

Goal Post is key

The goal post defines the boundaries within which your free kick can be judged. When you manage to pass the ball beyond the goal post, you can as well enjoy the reputation that comes with scoring. It is important you maintain a close eye to the goal post and counter any slight distraction that comes with cheering, foggy weather or grappling by players.

Target, don’t force

Energetic strikes give you high scoring chances, targeted shots give you higher. Kindly observe target over force as accuracy is paramount in any scoring venture. To enhance your chances of free kick targets, ensure you’re uniquely positioned, you’re kicking with your strong foot, the ball is stationary and no one is within close range.

Observe jumps

When you take the free kick, your opponents will jump to block. To enhance your scoring chances, consider taking curved shots. Similarly, you may try the bicycle or grass cutter style that drives the ball under when everyone jumps with their head. The latter is uniquely-positioned although it’s reserved to a few pros.

Alternatives

A flying-and-dropping shot is synonymous with most free kickers. Be unique by looking at other choices. You may consider giving a pass to a nearby teammate or kicking it back and availing space for a direct shot. However, ensure any strategy you leverage is within the general guidelines of proper free kicking. Most importantly, do not limit yourself to creativity as this adds to your chances of scoring.

Studies have consistently shown that expert free kick scorers emerge as top players. With this in mind, practice on long distance, targeted shots and join a rising number of stars. Scoring is the culmination of attitude, creativity, energy – and yourself.